Belfast Northern Ireland Stake Hosts Annual Remembrance Service
On 13 November 2022, the Belfast Stake held its annual stake remembrance service in Holywood Road meetinghouse, Belfast. The presiding authority was Area Seventy Elder Martin Turvey.
The stake remembrance service began several years ago as an event to primarily remember those members from the Belfast Stake who have been lost in conflict. Traditionally, each remembrance Sunday coincides with the beginning of UK Interfaith Week, and so the stake has incorporated this into their remembrance service. Those invited include local dignitaries, such as MPs, local government officials, community leaders and those from other faiths and traditions.
This year was the return to a fully inclusive service since the COVID-19 pandemic. Jim Shannon MP, the high sheriff of Belfast, Councillor John Hussey, Councillor Sonia Copeland, and Superintendent Ian Magee of the PSNI attended, along with members of the executive committee of the Northern Ireland Forum. The “Last Post” bugle call was played, and a piper played three laments, including “Amazing Grace.” Stake President Ben Noble gave opening remarks. Following several musical items, Superintendent Magee also spoke. Elder Turvey then concluded the evening.
Bishop White gave those from the Northern Ireland Interfaith Forum a guided tour of the meetinghouse, including the family history centre. Members, friends, and family were all grateful for the spirit of remembrance, gratitude and fellowship that was present during the evening.