Dear sisters and brothers,
As Remembrance Day approaches this year on Wednesday, 11 November we once again prepare to commemorate those who have died or suffered in wars and peacekeeping deployments.
To acknowledge and appreciate the service of Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel since being installed as Archbishop I have worked annually alongside current and former service personnel to develop themed Remembrance Day video messages.
This year, Army Chaplain James Hall and I are sharing a Remembrance Day message recorded at the National Defence Chaplains' Memorial Grove in Toowong. In our message, Chaplain James affirms that:
As Christians we believe that Jesus sacrificed his life for all humankind. When I remember those we commemorate today, I am reminded of Jesus’ own sacrifice. As a chaplain I know that serving members follow in Jesus’ footsteps — those of faith in particular understand his sacrifice.
Chaplain James goes on to explain that:
Archbishop Jeremy has formed a Veterans and Families Advisory Working Group to ensure veterans and their loved ones are supported, including by resourcing parishes so they are equipped to care for veterans suffering moral injury or spiritual wounds and to care for their family members.
In response, I share the following commitment to veterans and their loved ones:
My heart goes out to all veterans suffering in this way, and my prayer for you is that you know and receive God’s healing. As a working group member my commitment is to continue to lead our Diocese, so our whole Church becomes a place of welcome and nourishment for all current and former ADF personnel and their loved ones.
So, this Remembrance Day, Chaplain James and I encourage you to:
- Pause for a minute’s silence at 11am on Wednesday, 11 November.
- Share our two-minute video message, such as on social media, in newsletters and during services or Morning Prayer gatherings.
- Use the Remembrance Day resources on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Anzac Portal.
- Use the Remembrance Day and Defence Sunday resources on the Defence Anglicans website.
- Consider making a donation to help support the ministry of Anglican ADF chaplains via the Defence Anglicans website.
- I take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank all Australian Defence Force personnel, including our chaplains and the soldiers, aviators and sailors they faithfully serve.
Yours in Christ,
The Most Reverend Jeremy Greaves KCSJ
Archbishop of Brisbane