RENews
LIGHT of HOPE
RENews
LIGHT of HOPE
At 11 am on 11 November 1918, the guns of the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare. Today is the anniversary of that Armistice. It is a day for Australians to stop at the 11th hour of the 11th month to remember those who fought and died for our country in World War I and all wars and armed conflict. To honour this special day within the Sacred Space you might wish to place an Australia Flag and Red Poppies (symbol of remembrance of those who have died during wartime) and Rosemary (symbol of remembrance of the dead).
Each year, Australians observe one minute’s silence at 11 am in remembrance of those who have died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts. The Last Post's playing, followed by one minute’s Silence, is observed by all people. After the Silence, the Rouse is sounded: this signifies ‘an awakening in a better world for the dead’. We also pray for those who continue to serve in the armed forces and peace-keeping forces, and we especially pray for peace in our world.
In military tradition, the Last Post is the bugle call that signifies the end of the day's activities. It is also sounded at military funerals to indicate that the soldier has gone to his final rest and at commemorative services such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.
The Last Post is one of a number of bugle calls in the military tradition that mark the phases of the day. While Reveille signals the start of a soldier's day, the Last Post signals its end.
They shall not grow old as we that are left grow old.
Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.
Lest we forget.