Armistice 100: Archbishop of York pens special prayer to commemorate the silencing of the guns

Dr John Sentamu also hopes that memorial events, and community tributes, to the fallen will “spur us on to pray and build reconciliation, justice, and truth throughout the world”.

Here is the text of the Archbishop’s prayer for peace – and a special audio recording – as he presided over the planting of a yew tee in the grounds of Bishopthrope Palace, his official residence, to support the Royal British legions 100th Great War Anniversary tree planting campaign.

God of heaven and earth

as we wear our poppies from Flanders Fields,

we remember solemnly before you

the men and women who gave their lives in the cause of peace,

and those who bear today the wounds of war.

Spur us on to pray and build reconciliation, justice, and truth throughout the world

until your Kingdom comes on earth as in heaven.

We offer this prayer in the company of Christ, the Prince of peace.

Amen.