Lest we forget

We Shall Remember Them - 

On the 28th of April, we had the honour of attending the ANZAC Day ceremony at St John’s Anglican Church (in Gordon) with Mrs O. The church was absolutely beautiful and it was an experience that opened our eyes to the unique wartime history of Australia, as well as those who sacrificed their lives serving our now peaceful country. 

ANZAC or Australian & New Zealand Army Corps - were valiant people who died with courage and honour. They are emblems of bravery and their sacrifice is honoured by people all around the world. We wouldn’t be here today without their actions. During the lovely ceremony, we learnt so much about the terrors of wartime and the courage the ANZACs fought with. We even had the honour to listen to a first-hand account of the war from a veteran, who told us about one of the bravest soldiers he had the honour of knowing - a doctor who sacrificed his life to save another and became one of the first ones to fall during the battle of Gallipoli. This showed us that even in the dreadfulness of war, peace stands in the hearts of the ANZACs who sacrificed themselves. 

At the ceremony in Gordon, we had the honour of laying a handmade wreath at the altar. The crosses were brought back originally from the World Wars, and they bore marks that showed they were from long ago, even at a prison camp. This was a symbol of the courage and spirit the soldiers had even when they were suffering. We even had a special shout out as our classmates made our wreaths by hand and a book full of prayers and artworks by the Seniors, every page was filled with love and care. During the service, there were beautiful songs sung by the church’s heavenly choir as well as a magnificent organ. 

The church was breath-taking. There were beautiful stained glass windows that covered the church and it was filled with showcases of history; from flags that represented Christian faith during wartime to the aforementioned crosses that honoured each and every one of the soldiers. We truly loved this opportunity to connect with God, honour the sacrifice of the soldiers and learn about the ANZACs as well as the battle of Gallipoli. 

Lest We Forget. 

Katie & Jaslyn