An Anzac Day tribute

By Michael Knight

Saturday 25 April 2009

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Is war ever necessary? Who are the people that really gain from it?

Should we in the future, ever allow our children or loved ones to be induced or persuaded under some concocted propaganda to go off and fight a war that doesn't serve their families or themselves, but rather someone else's agendas?

I say NOT!

However, to commemorate those brave and honourable men, namely our heroes, who unfortunately were misled into thinking they were doing the right thing, please join in as we say a prayer for our fathers, grandfathers and their fathers who have fought in many wars for freedoms that today we take for granted, losing their lives in often such tragic and pointless circumstances that most of us would struggle to imagine.

Let us say another prayer for the mothers and children who lost these great men — who too have no doubt also suffered a tragedy of enormous loss and grief over the years, far more than they may ever really understand or be aware of — with the pain rippling for generations to come.

Lest we remember them — to all those who have perished and suffered a Separation, in one form or another.

A moment's silence please as we say a prayer...

"God of love and liberty, we bring our thanks this day for the peace and security we enjoy, which was won for us through the courage and devotion of those who gave their lives in time of war.

We pray that their labour and sacrifice may not be in vain, but that their spirit may live on in us and in generations to come.

That the liberty, truth and justice which they sought to preserve may be seen and known in all the nations upon earth.

Eternal Lord God we pray for the peace of the world. Especially commend to your mercy the homeless and refugees; those who have been dispossessed and have lost their employment; those whose families have been disrupted and who mourn the loss of loved ones.

This we pray in the name of the one who gave his life for the sake of the world, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen."

With love and peace
Michael