Prayer

Lord God, at this time of national remembrance, we give thanks for the courage of those who have served in so many ways and in so many places, and gave of themselves to ensure peace would follow. We recognise their service and make a commitment that they will never be forgotten.

We also remember the breadth of duties carried out by our forces and support personnel through the years: the conflicts, the peace keeping duties, the humanitarian aid – for all that they give and all that they do to make this world of ours a safer and more caring place. We also commend in our prayers the families of those who serve for the sacrifices they make, the worry they live with and the love they offer to those close and dear to them.

We echo the words written in the Field Service Book (and the Book of Common Order of the Church of Scotland)…

Almighty God, in you alone we find safety and peace.

We commend to your gracious keeping all the men and women who serve in the Navy, the Army, or the Air Force, who face danger and put their lives at risk so that others might live in safety.

Defend them day by day by your heavenly power; and help them to know that they can never pass beyond the reach of your care.

Keep alive in them and in us your vision of that peace which alone we must seek and serve; Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen

A prayer for Remembrance from the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Rt Rev Dr Shaw Paterson.