Lest We Forget
Members of the Orpington Ward gathered with members of the Orpington community on Remembrance Sunday to commemorate those who gave their lives in the world wars.
“This annual ceremony is of importance to us Latter-day Saints, especially as we believe in eternal life and that families are eternal,” said Brother Tobias Andreasson, first counsellor in the bishopric. “My great-grandfather died in the first world war in service to his country. I feel it is important to remember and show gratitude for his and others’ service and sacrifice for the freedom and peace of their posterity.”
The temple and family history consultants in Orpington Ward actively encourage members, particularly the youth, to participate in genealogy and searching out their family history facilitated by the online genealogy platforms including FamilySearch, Ancestry and My Heritage.
Orpington Ward leaders actively encourage the congregation to invite family, friends and the local community to join them in acknowledging and demonstrating gratitude to those who fought for the welfare of their countries by engaging in simple acts of service, similar to the acts of those engaged in the war effort.
In 2018, to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the end of World War I, members participated in the 11 Days of Remembrance initiative set up by the Church.
Each year they base their Remembrance Sunday morning worship on themes appropriate to the day, giving accounts of family, friends and other individuals who dedicated their lives to fighting for liberty and world peace. Referring to the phrase ‘Lest we forget’ used commonly in war commemorative services and occasions, Brother Andreasson went on to say, “We Latter-day Saints go well beyond the reminder ‘Lest we forget.’ For us engaging in genealogy, temple work and remembering our beloved dead is not simply an annual activity. It is ongoing throughout the year. The reunion of eternal families is an important focus of our lives.”