David Warden Participates in Bournemouth Remembrance Service

We are pleased to report that David Warden, Chair of Dorset Humanists, took an active part in the Bournemouth Remembrance Service at the Bournemouth War Memorial on 9th November 2014. Lyn Glass, Vice Chair of Dorset Humanists, accompanied David at the occasion. This is the second year that Dorset Humanists have been allowed to make a contribution to what was previously an exclusively religious service.
David was representing the Defence Humanists, a section of the British Humanist Association, and augmented religious leaders’ contributions with a secular reading about peace. The Defence Humanists is a growing body of servicemen and women, their families, veterans and civilian members of the Ministry of Defence. Their mission is to seek to represent the interests of all those who subscribe to non-religious beliefs. 
David read the following words:

Peace begins with respect. If we cannot accept a world of human difference we will never enjoy a world of peace.
Peace needs humility. If we are willing to see our own faults then the bridges of trust can be rebuilt.
Peace needs co-operation. If we realise that most of what we desire cannot be secured by ourselves alone we will cultivate friendship.
Peace needs compromise. It needs a willingness to tolerate a world that is less than perfect.
Peace requires justice. We must be willing to share the world's resources fairly.
Peace is hard work. There are no laws of history that will guarantee its arrival.
So let our tribute to those of all beliefs who have suffered and died in conflict be our resolve to work for peace.
Adapted from Sherwin Wine 'Celebration: A Ceremonial and Philosophical Guide for Humanists and Humanistic Jews' (2003)

For more details of the Remembrance service, please view Bournemouth Echo’s report here:
www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/11590148.UPDATED__Thousands_pay_tribute_at_Remembrance_Sunday_events/