International Day of Peace: Sun 21 Sept.
Patronal Festival / Peace Day commemorations: St Cyprians Church, Umbilo, Sunday 21 September at 11am
St Cyprians Anglican Church in Umbilo is presenting a combined celebration service on Sunday morning, 21 September at 11am, which is International Day of Peace and the church’s Patronal Festival, he parish’s 155th anniversary celebration, and the first outing of their newly refurbished magnificent organ.
United Nations has declared September 21 to be The International Day of Peace (“Peace Day”). Established in 1981 by a unanimous United Nations resolution, Peace Day provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and to contribute towards building a universal culture of non-violence. Everyone has a role to play to speak up against conflict, hate, discrimination, and inequality; practice respect; and embrace the diversity of our world.
“As we stand, seemingly once more on the brink of international conflict and war, in a time of turbulence, tumult and uncertainty, it is critical that everyone take concrete steps to commit to harmony and peace in the absolute knowledge that complacency and inaction will condemn all of society to moral corruption, poverty, violence and misery,” says Lgr Bryan Dore, representing the SA Legion of Military Veterans, who, together with the MOTHS, and other veteran organisations, will be publicly pledging their commitment to actively get involved in peace projects.
“As Veterans who have experienced the ultimate senselessness of conflict, we seek to unite in prayer and commitment with the United Nations Peace Day objectives,” says Dore
There will be a strong peace theme embedded into the St Cyprians Patronal Festival recognising the 1767th anniversary of Cyprian’s martyrdom in Carthage.
The service features the Durban Symphonic Choir, accomplished organists Maggie Deppe and AJ Bethke; trumpeter Yosuke Matsui (principal trumpet player of the KZNPO) and pianist David Smith playing on the church’s new grand piano. Celebrating priests will be Fr Dance Elsworth, Fr Alan Miller and Fr AJ Bethke, with Fr Peter Houston from the Durban Holocaust Centre, giving the sermon, and Fr Gary Thompson reading the Gospel.
The church organ has been extensively refurbished and upgraded. A hugely expensive undertaking which took more than two months to complete by Pretoria based organ builder brothers Archie and Darrell Devere. There are now a whopping 1413 organ pipes which significantly improves the “colour” and tonal architects of the music.
The service features a range of magnificent music, the laying of a wreath of peace, and carefully chosen readings, prayers and hymns. Entry is free and all are welcome.
St Cyprians is at 603 Umbilo Rd. There is guarded onsite parking.
