Last week, people across the country remembered May 8, 1945 — the day World War II ended in Europe (VE Day). After years of fighting, peace was finally declared. Crowds celebrated in the streets, families were brought back together, and many took time to honour those who had served. This year is especially important, as it marks 80 years since VE Day, with events taking place across the UK to remember this historic moment.

VE Day isn’t just about celebration. It’s about remembrance, gratitude, and a deep desire for peace. It’s a time to remember those who gave their lives so others could live in freedom. It’s a time to think about the cost of war — not just to soldiers, but to civilians, children, and families around the world.

Even today, conflicts still rage in parts of the world. As we remember VE Day, we also reflect on our role in building a more peaceful future.

You may recognise this well-known bible verse:

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.^{Matthew 5:9}

Jesus calls us not just to believe in peace, but to live it out — to be peaceMAKERS. Peace doesn’t happen on its own; it begins with the choices each of us makes.

Chat as a tutor group this morning about how we can work towards keeping peace in our world?

Let’s use the words of St Francis of Assisi as we finish with a prayer,

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.

Amen.