Beneath the altar of St John Bosco in Woodley, a simple display of artefacts – a helmet, tin mug and knapsack – provided a poignant snapshot of the day-to-day ordinariness of soldiers in the First World War Ann Keenan
St John Bosco in Woodley was just one of many Catholic churches in the Portsmouth diocese to offer Requiem Masses in memory of those who died during the First World War.
It was held on Sunday, August 3, the day before the 100th anniversary of Britain’s declaration of war against Germany.
Officiating, Father Adrian Walker spoke of generosity and the nature of sacrifice; he also called to mind all currently serving in the armed services and asked the people to pray fervently for peace in the world.
On entering the church, parishioners passed posters and tables full of framed photographs of the loved ones they lost in the conflict.
The altar itself was bedecked with flowers, and beneath the lectern lay a wreath of poppies surrounded by more images.
Beneath the altar a simple display of artefacts – a helmet, tin mug and knapsack – provided a poignant snapshot of the day-to-day ordinariness of the lives which were to be so cruelly shattered. High above, on the wall, were written the simple words “We will remember them”.
In place of the final hymn, three verses of Lawrence Binyon’s For the Fallen were read. And, as the Mass drew to a close, the only sound was that of a lone trumpet playing The Last Post.
Last modified on Wednesday, 06 August 2014 11:55
