LOCAL NEWS
ST STEPHEN’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH TO HOLD A FIRST WORLD WAR COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE A special service of worship is to be held at 10am at St Stephen’s Presbyterian Church, Ponsonby on Sunday 8 November to commemorate the service men and women who left from St Stephen’s to serve in the Armed Forces during the Great War, known as the First World War; and to remember those who died in active service or as a result of their experience. Eighty-five young men left St Stephen’s; 18 were to die either on active service or as a result of their service. There will be an opportunity for those attending to make their own remembrance by placing a candle or poppy in a memorial tray at the front of the church. Family members are encouraged to wear their loved one’s medals on their right, while medals awarded to an individual are worn on the left above the heart. The Manukau Counties Police Choir will participate in the service. There will be a display of memorabilia and contributions from local schools.
The World Belongs to the Dissatisfied
St Stephen’s would like to hear from family members associated with those being remembered. In particular, the church is keen to see diary excerpts and any writing that may have come from the service personnel, as well trench art and artefacts. Online Cenotaph lists war casualties. For example, Gunner Albert Eric Ralston [49066] was a corporal in the New Zealand Artillery, 2nd Brigade, died in France of wounds on 26 August 1918. F PN A reception in the church hall will follow the service. Further details: www.ststephensponsonby.co.nz; or from Rev Don Hall, E: donjanethall@xtra.co.nz
DEADLINE - 20TH OF THE MONTH
PONSONBY NEWS+ October 2015
19