St George's Church, Ypres

In 1927 the Menin Gate was consecrated and it was then that this the stone for this church was laid and dedicated. Designed by the same architect (Sir Reginald Blomfield) this is a meeting place for the families of those who gave their lives and a memorial to those who died in military service and their regiments.

An interesting aspect is the memorial plaques from schools commemorations masters, pupils and staff who lost their lives in the 1914-18 conflict (Eton having in excess of one thousand such men).

The question, for me at least is whether or not this was really a war in which we find 'lions led by donkeys'?


As the rain falls we make our way out of Wipers (Ypres) to what the Staffords called 'Gullivelt' and consider those who fought in the first World Ward from the Indian continent and their sacrifice and acheievements.



Doing so, the words of today's collect are calling me to discern God's likeness in those around me echo in my head as the outworking of what failure to do so surrounds me.



Almighty God,
you have created the heavens and the earth
and made us in your own image:
teach us to discern your hand in all your works
and your likeness in all your children;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns supreme over all things,
now and for ever.  Amen.