St Andrew’s Church, Bentley, marked Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day with a series of special services honouring those who have given, and continue to give, their lives in times of war and conflict.
A magnificent poppy display has been installed on the corner of the church. Featuring an impressive 2,000 knitted poppies, the display was lovingly created by volunteers from St Andrew’s and members of the Bentley West Ladies’ Group.
Each red poppy represents a local life lost during the First World War, while purple poppies commemorate the animals who were injured or killed through their service in conflict. The display looks impressive after dark, when illuminated by red and purple lighting, creating a fitting tribute to all those who made sacrifices during wartime.
On Remembrance Sunday, services were held at both 10am and 6pm, with remembrance at the heart of each occasion. Bishop Paul Hunt delivered the sermon, reflecting on John 15:9–17, and shared the stories of two local heroes whose lives and sacrifices deserve to be remembered. At both services, the congregation gathered around the poppy display to observe the two-minute silence.
The commemorations continued on Armistice Day, 11th November, with a special service beginning at 10.50am. At 11am, those gathered observed the traditional two-minute silence, marking the moment the guns fell silent and remembering all those who have lost their lives in conflicts.
Through these services and the remarkable community-led poppy display, St Andrew’s Church, Bentley, brought together the local community to honour the fallen, remember their sacrifices and reflect on the importance of peace.
