Leicester (UK) : The Brahma Kumaris hosted a Multi-Faith Remembrance Day Service at Harmony House in Leicester in the UK.
Attended by more than 150 people and organised by Lieutenant Colonel David Young, the annual event brought representatives from all major faiths together to commemorate the fallen and to support the work of the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF). The ABF was joined by The Sikh Welfare and Cultural Society of Leicestershire, the Rutland Police, Baroness Verma, and local dignitaries.
In a truly moving service, faith leaders and guest speakers shared prayers, gave pause, and encouraged us all to reflect on the sacrifices of those who had given their lives in the name of war as well as the impact on society at large. Representatives from all the major faiths in Leicestershire and Rutland were joined by ambassadors for Leicestershire and the Rutland Police, the ABF, the Brahma Kumaris, and many others in laying wreaths.
Twenty-six wreaths were laid in total, and in describing the service, Lt. Colonel Young said, “The number of people in attendance this evening speaks volumes for its vital importance. This event commemorates and remembers those who lost their lives and brings together many different communities within Leicestershire, Rutland ,and beyond.”
The importance of the event was further reinforced by a message from Buckingham Palace read by Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur OBE (Order of the British Empire), which conveyed Her Majesty’s support for the service and its crucial message of unity and solidarity.
Via video message, BK Sister Jayanti, European Director of the Brahma Kumaris, challenged us all to contemplate the impact of war and to reflect on the ever-more pressing need to live in harmony.
Tributes were also paid to those from across the world who have risked their lives and risked great personal sacrifice in support of Britain and its allies during major conflicts, including more than a million soldiers from India who fought in World War Two. Indeed, Maureen Goodman, Brahma Kumaris UK Programme Director, spoke of her personal connection and recent visit to Auschwitz. “Peace is our natural nature and we need to rediscover this. It is about changing our consciousness and realizing what is right for humanity.”
Commemorating those who have given so much to secure a safe future for us all is truly humbling and is a stark reminder that we all have a role to play in maintaining peace and harmony.