Regional Synod of Canada - Reformed Church in America

Pioneer Christian Monthly

Date - Nov/86

Contributor - Will Kroon

Title - Remembrance Day 1986

Topic - Remembrance Day

The nation of Israel has remembered for centuries the great events of her past around monuments. Already early in history it raised up stones in order to preserve its heritage and to ensure that future generations would remember those who died in the struggles of the past. We too have raised up stones and built monuments in order that we, and the generations to follow might recall our experiences of war and remember those who gave their lives for the sake of freedom.

Occasionally I meet some patients in the hospital who have survived some of the brutal onslaughts of World War 11 in Eastern Europe. They have experienced the unbelievable suffering and loneliness of a combat soldier. One of them said, "No outsider will be able to understand what we went through and how much our bodies had to endure. The terror, the loneliness, the hunger and the coldness as well as the many nights our soaked bodies had to rest in muddy trenches are beyond description."

If we could stand at the monuments at my native country, Holland, we could read the long lists of names of friends and foes who died in battle in that nation. Even in that small nation alone, we find the graves of 8,000 British soldiers, as well as that of 2,500 Canadians who were buried there. Furthermore, there were 70,000 Germans who never returned from Dutch soil.

When we remember the suffering and death of so many millions we feel urged to speak. We feel the urge to break the silence lest the world around us forgets not only what those in uniform have done for their nation and for the freedom of the world, but also the sacrifices of their families and loved ones. Let us not forget that there also were lay people, pastors and priests who put their lives on the line to expose and condemn the evil forces of the day. We would like to remember them too lest we forget that they also were "soldiers" for the Lord and their country. In many parts of the globe they are the ones who are in the forefront in exposing evil and in leading the struggle for peace. For ultimately we strive for peace.

In our worship services at the hospital we aim to promote peace and understanding. Those in attendance at worship have their roots in all corners of the globe and belong to a host of different denominations. After the message we ask those who have use of their hands to reach out to those around them by "passing the peace". This is an old biblical tradition which we find very meaningful. Through reaching out to others one experiences something of the peace of Christ when he/she says to someone: "The peace of Christ be with you."

On Remembrance Day I will join those who stand with the veterans and their loved ones and remember silently those who have made great sacrifices to fight war. This gives me a greater incentive to reach out to fellow believers and give them the sign of peace. It is peace we are after.

Please click the "Back" button of your browser to return to previous page.