I can hardly believe the summer holidays are over and the first term of the new academic year is speeding towards the next holiday at the end of October!

And then it will be November, a time for remembering before we turn our thoughts toward Christmas.

Remembrance this year is particularly poignant for many as they commemorate 100 years since the outbreak of World War I and 75 years since the outbreak of World War II.  It is not only a time to remember past wars and the cost of human life – on all sides – that came from the declaration of war but to reflect once more on how peace can be established between nations.  Why is it so difficult to establish peace?  Perhaps our minds block out the horror of war, the pain that is personal to those involved, the guilt that can accompany those that find themselves maiming and killing others in combat or air strikes.  Those that take part are profoundly affected, as are their family and friends by their ordeal.

If we do nothing else during the commemoration of those who gave their lives fighting for freedom and justice let us work to establish peace.  Let us learn to resolve difference peacefully in our homes, our communities and our wider circle of connections.

It is those who act on the ‘Declaration of War’ that feel the full brunt of the announcement.  The decision becomes personal to each one as they go to fight, as they obey the instruction of higher authority. It is they who are affected, that pay the price.

As we come near to Remembrance Day we may find ourselves amongst a crowd of people where some have red poppies and others white poppies – let us not judge each other but work alongside each other as people representing the memory of hurt and loss from the past and those who work for peace and harmony to avoid further hurt and loss.  As our young men and women continue to be called into active service let us pray that renewed attempts will be made to establish a better way than violent force.  This is the greatest honour we can offer to those who have given their lives in the service of others.

With love and best wishes
Ann