VJ Day – 80 Years On

On 15 August 1945, Victory over Japan Day marked the end of the Second World War. For many in Britain, the war in Europe had ended months earlier, but in the Far East, fighting raged on in what has often been called the forgotten war.

This anniversary reminds us of the courage of those who served in the Pacific and Asia, many of whom endured unimaginable hardship. Thousands lost their lives; many more suffered in prisoner-of-war camps, facing brutal conditions and years of separation from loved ones.

As a church community, we pause to honour their sacrifice and to remember their pain. We give thanks for their service, we pray for their families, and we commit ourselves to ensuring their stories are never forgotten. The church will be open today from 12:00 to 2:00 for those who wish to pray or need a quiet place to reflect.

May we remember with gratitude, and live in a way that honours the peace they longed for.

VE Day Celebrations - earlier this year