The Blessing and Dedication of The New Ypres League

Standard and Memorial Plaque

October 15th 2024

St George's Memorial Church, Ypres

An excellent service was organised to dedicate the New Ypres League (NYL) Plaque in the porch of St George's Memorial Church and the blessing of its Standard.

The Reverend Richard Clement, Chaplain to the NYL and St Georges Memorial Church, welcomed the congregation to the Church after which "I Vow  To Thee My Country" was heartily sung.

The Chaplain then addressed the congregation: "Brothers and sisters, we meet together in the presence of God to take part in this service of the blessing and dedication of the New Ypres League Standard dedication of the New Ypres League Standard and dedication of the Memorial Plaque to the New Ypres League.

almighty God, whose will is for all of humanity to live together in peace and harmony, may we ever be mindful of the service and sacrifice of those who have gone before us and especially those who served in the Ypres League in the years following the First World War. Help us be willing always to serve without counting the cost, save that of knowing that we do your will, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen"

Following a reading by Rosie Barron, the Membership Secretary the Standard Bearer marched the Standard to the Chaplain who then said: "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we do dedicate and set apart this Standard, that it may be a sign of our duty towards our kings and Countries and a symbol of the service that the New Ypres League is called upon to render. May Almighty God bless this Standard, that it would inspire and encourage those who serve in the New Ypres League in the years to come. Amen."

The Standard was placed on the alter by the Chaplain that was followed by prayers.

The Chaplain, Churchwardens and New Ypres League representatives to the church porch. The Chaplain said: "In the faith of Jesus Christ, we offer and dedicate this Memorial to the glory of God and in memory of those who served in the Ypres League. Amen.

May it be a symbol of their courage, dedication and service, given in the hope of peace and a better world to come. Amen.

May all who read it pause in silence and give thanks. Amen."

The small group returned to the Church where the Act of Remembrance began, followed by The Last Post ceremony and the Kohima Epitaph.

The final hymn, "Onward Christian Soldiers" was sung following the national anthems of the United Kingdom and Belgium were played. The Chaplain gave the blessing and invited the congregation to move to the church hall for refreshments.