Leaders of the four main Churches in Londonderry took part in a joint Act of Remembrance at The War Memorial, in The Diamond on Sunday morning. The annual event is held on the Sunday nearest Armistice Day to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives for freedom in the two World Wars and in more recent conflicts.
This morning’s Service was led by the Pastoral Assistant at St Columb’s Cathedral, Rev Canon John Merrick, who was joined by the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Rt Rev Andrew Forster; the Bishop of Derry, Most Rev Dr Donal McKeown; the Minister of First Derry Presbyterian Church, Rev Colin Jones; and the Chairperson of the NW Methodist Mission, Rev Dr Stephen Skuce. All five clergymen led those present in prayer.
Soft rain fell throughout the event, during which wreaths were laid by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for the County Borough of Londonderry, Mr Ian Crowe MBE DL; political and civic dignitaries; and representatives of various policing and military services.
The Britannia and William King Bands provided music for the ceremony, including a rendition of the National Anthem, and there was a poignant playing of The Last Post by a solitary bugler.
The event in the Diamond was followed by a Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving at St Columb’s Cathedral.
