The 80th anniversary of D Day and the Normandy landings is to be commemorated in prayer and through special services across the Diocese of Carlisle.
The Rt Rev Rob-Saner Haigh, Bishop of Penrith and Acting Bishop of Carlisle, said: “Like so many of us, I have listened to the recollections of D Day veterans and watched the black and white footage of soldiers preparing to storm the Normandy beaches from landing craft on D Day and over subsequent days. The courage and bravery shown by all those veterans who fought for our freedom is immeasurable.”
“We owe each and every one of them our deepest thanks and recognise that so many paid the ultimate sacrifice in order that we might live free. My prayers are with all those who fought for our freedom, and I also remember in prayer and gratitude those veterans who have been able to travel to France to remember fallen comrades.”
A D Day prayer has been prepared by the Ven Stewart Fyfe, the Archdeacon of West Cumberland, to be used at services across Cumbria.
It reads: “Loving Father, whose son Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, laid down his life that we might be free; We thank you for those who, on D-Day, offered their lives for our freedom. We pray today for all who still bear the wounds of war. As we honour the fallen,
we pray for those who love them in death as in life. We ask for the courage to contend today for all that is good, noble and true, And for the grace to live by your words,
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be children of God.” Through Jesus Christ, our Saviour. Amen.”
Churches are to be involved in a series of special services and beacon lighting events across Cumbria.
In Penrith D-Day will be marked with the official Proclamation reading 8am at the Bandstand in the Cornmarket. Along with the Flag of Peace flown at the Town Hall.
Schools are also talong part with the reading of specially prepared poems and some taking part by celebrating with a Fish and Chip’s lunch as part of the official days celebration that also included National Fish and Chip Day.
At 8.30pm, Committed2Rock will be performing some songs of the period at St Andrew’s Churchyard immediately prior to the lighting of a gas Beacon in St Andrews at 9.15pm. This will be followed by a recital of the International Tribute and one further song.
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