November 5th wasn’t always about fireworks and fun, writes Bert Cargill of St Monans Gospel Hall. It began as a way of remembering the treason of Guy Faulkes and his friends who tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605. Now it has created a hazard for people and pets in some places!
November 11th is different. It’s an opportunity to remember the many courageous men and women who gave their lives in the cause of freedom in wars that have blighted this earth for centuries, and sadly, they still do. So, in a more sombre mood, communities and individuals will pause this weekend, reflect, and observe a minute of silence. “We will remember them.”
Here in St Monans, yet another remembrance event is planned for November 22nd. Precisely 150 years ago, our villages suffered a terrible tragedy when five 40ft sailing boats on their way home from the East Anglia fishing were wrecked in a gale near King’s Lynn - 37 fishermen perished, 19 women lost their husbands, 37 children lost their fathers. Evocative sculptures engraved with the names of the men who died are to be unveiled in a new Memorial Garden, and this tragic accident in 1875 will be remembered appropriately and acknowledged at last.
Someone else whom many people want to remember often, and with deep gratitude, is Jesus Christ, who died on that old rugged cross. This was no tragic accident, but rather part of God’s amazing plan so that we could be saved and have eternal life by putting our trust in Him. For Jesus rose from the dead. He lives forever, able to save and keep safe for today and tomorrow and for all eternity, all who accept Him as their own Saviour. I hope you have done that. I hope you will remember Him.
Written by Bert Cargill
All photos courtesy of Unsplash
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