Vigil to be held to remember WW1 centenary

Vigil to be held to remember World War One centenary

Town Centre Chaplaincy and Christians Together will be holding a peace and prayer vigil service on Monday 4 August to commemorate the beginning of World War One.

Rev Margaret Smith, Town Centre Chaplain, said: “Churches nationwide were asked to do something to remember World War One, without glorifying the actual act of war.

“We’ve decided to hold a vigil to allow people to thank those involved in the war, and to think about the repercussions it had on the whole world.”

Speaking to members of the local community revealed that most people thought the vigils were a great idea.

John Brown said: “It’s so important for us to remember. World War One is a vital part of our country’s history, as it was the first war of its kind.

"My grandson was recently learning about the history of the war at school, and I believe it is so important to pass on the message to the younger generation.

"I hope to attend these vigils; they’re a brilliant way to allow people to pay their respects.”

Hannah Earle said: “It’s very important to remember and pay respect to the soldiers that fought for the safety of others.”

Lee Hughes said: “I’ll be paying a moments silence on Monday to remember the soldiers. The vigils are a great idea for those who want to pay their respects.”

Nigel Higginbotham said: “It is incredibly important to remember those that sacrificed their lives for others.”

Susan Knight, Church Warden at St Andrew’s, Dearnley, said: “World War One is still so significant, especially regarding recent events such as the war in Israel and Palestine.

“Young men left their homes and never returned, and it is important that we bring the message home and honour those soldiers.”

• From 4.30pm – 5.00pm, people can join together at Number One Riverside to learn about the history of World War One.
• At 7.00pm, coffee and cake will be served in the Salvation Army Citadel.
• From 8.00pm, the peace and prayer vigil service will be held in the Memorial Gardens opposite the Town Hall. 

The service will involve readings and poetry, as well as a display of artwork from Shawclough Primary School.

On Sunday 3 August, St Andrew’s Church in Dearnley will be holding candlelight vigil between 8pm-9pm.

The service will involve prayers, readings and hymns.

Rochdale Online Events has a list of WW1 Commemoration Services and events from across the borough