The Armistice 100 Years on
and The Joy of Peace
Imagine 100 years ago, the ravages of the Great War had killed hundreds of thousands across the country, as witnessed by War Memorials in almost every village in the country. Some families had the younger generation ripped out of their hearts. A massive social change as yet unseen was upon the whole nation. No radio, no TV. Word of mouth and the printed media was the only form of communication. Into this the bell-ringers, those who were left, rose up into their towers to proclaim peace.
This is what we want to remember on 11thNovember 2018. Yes, there will be the national Remembrance at the Cenotaph at 11am. At St. John’s we will ring the bells half muffled. A reminder of the national grief.
Hagley Cricket Club have kindly offered to open up their pavilion and bar immediately after the church service. The Hagley branch of the Royal British Legion will be offering cups of tea and coffee by the pavilion. So do not rush away after the service as there may be long queues with the hundreds expected. There will be the also be an opportunity to donate to the Poppy Appeal.
The afternoon of Sunday 11thNovember will be different. Try to imagine the feeling of relief with the advent of peace 100 years ago. The bell tower at St. John’s will be open for everyone to come and make some noise. The Hagley Hand-bell ringers will also be on hand in the church for you to have ago with their hand bells,
Do come along to St. John’s on the afternoon of 11thNovember from 12:30pm. Further refreshments (including cakes) will be available in the church. Younger children will be most welcome to use the resources there to play with. Extra car parking will be available. And now with the Wychury room we have full facilities for disabled persons.
See you there.
Richard Scarth 07768 273545 ringers@hagleycofe.co.uk