Prayer

August 6 is Hiroshima Day

Why do we commemorate the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki ?

Hiroshima Day commemorates August 6 1945, the day when an atomic bomb was dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima, followed a few days later by another dropped on the city of Nagasaki.

The tragedy completely destroyed the two cities and left the country to deal with a dreadful fate even in its aftermath. 

The bombings effectively ended World War II by bringing about the surrender of Japan, but at a terrible price – the two cities were destroyed and casualties, mostly civilians, were estimated at around 200,000, with many more people dying later from injuries and illness.

Hiroshima Day reminds the world that all wars are terrible, and nuclear warfare even more so.

Hiroshima Day is now a focus for anti-war and anti-nuclear discussions and demonstrations.

The ‘Brigidine Sisters’ website acknowledges Hiroshima Day and includes the following symbol of peace and a quote.

“Let there be peace and may it begin with me.”

At this time, we pray for peace in the world, and remember those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

Amen.