8th May 2025 by Revd. Julia Lall, Rector
Eighty years ago, the United Kingdom and its allies marked a momentous occasion—the end of the war in Europe. Victory in Europe Day, or VE Day, became a symbol of peace, hope, and the hard-won freedom we often take for granted.
Today, as we commemorate VE Day 80, our thoughts turn to those who sacrificed so much: the millions who gave their lives, were wounded, or carried emotional scars for decades. The toll of war was felt in every village, town, and city. No one was untouched. Yet from that darkness, a deep gratitude emerged—a thankfulness for peace, for democracy, and for the promise of a better future.
As communities across the country prepare to mark this anniversary with tribute and celebration, it’s worth pausing to reflect: What can we learn from that victory? What does it teach us today?
Remembering the Past
First, we remember. The Second World War brought tremendous suffering. Families were torn apart. Communities were changed forever. Today, we hold in our hearts especially those from our own villages who never came home. Their legacy lives on—not just in stone memorials, but in the freedoms we now enjoy.
Learning from History
Secondly, we learn. VE Day wasn’t only a celebration of military victory—it was a celebration of freedom restored, of democracy reclaimed. It was a moment for people to express their gratitude for peace after years of fear and uncertainty.
That same peace and stability are gifts we still cherish today. They were hard-won, and they remind us to remain vigilant—especially now, as the world once again grapples with division, prejudice, and the risk of repeating past mistakes.
A Call to Action
The post-war world saw extraordinary progress in human rights and international cooperation. But as Christians, our calling doesn’t stop with remembrance. We are called to act: to forgive, to serve, and to build a more just and equitable world.
That means standing up for the oppressed, feeding the hungry, educating the young, and offering comfort to those in pain or distress. We are each called to be agents of peace and reconciliation, strengthening the weak and protecting the vulnerable.
A Deeper Hope
Throughout the Bible, we see God calling His people to live justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him. When humanity failed to live in peace, God sent His Son, Jesus, to show us a better way—a way grounded in justice, compassion, righteousness, and love.
Jesus himself said, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” As we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, may we also be inspired by that example of self-giving love.
Moving Forward
So today, on VE Day 80, let us not only look back but also look forward. Let us pray for peace and reconciliation. Let us recommit ourselves to building a brighter future—for our communities, our nation, and our world.
And above all, let us strive to bring the values of God’s Kingdom to life—here, now, and in the years to come.
Amen.