AT GRACE CATHEDRAL: AMAZING GRACE

This past Sunday, the San Francisco Chapter of The Royal British Legion staged its 31st Annual Service of Remembrance at Grace Cathedral. Based on the Festival of Remembrance held each year in the Royal Albert Hall in London, it is a tribute to the men and women of every nation who gave their lives in defense of freedom and justice. This year, it also paid homage to those currently serving in the armed forces.

What a time to leave home without my camera. Memorial services are not usually photo-ops, but I regretted not having a camera as soon as I took my first step on the climb to the majestic doors of the cathedral. There, on the top landing, was a state and city honor guard on horseback, carrying flags of the U. S. and California. Red-sashed, bereted members of the Legion, proudly wearing the medals they had earned in service, ushered us to our seats.

The stirring service of music and prayer began with trumpet fanfares announcing the processions of kilted Legion members, church officials in ceremonial robes, and the uniformed services of the U.S. The ceremony was in all ways a British/American celebration. We sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Save the Queen,” The Wreath of the Unknown Warrior, borne by honor guards of both countries, was placed on the altar.

A representative of Queen Elizabeth II told us that Britain makes and sells millions of paper poppies each year in support of the armed services.They were sold at this service, too; the pews were filled with poppies pinned to jackets. The Archdeacon of the Diocese of California told us that each year our Governor and Mayor receive written invitations to the service, and every year to date they have declined. In true feisty spirit, he announced that they would be invited again next year. The homily offered sobering thoughts on wars, past and present, and was especially meaningful in light of the tragedy at Fort Hood.

The service closed with a wrenching rendition of “Amazing Grace” played by bagpipers in full-dress uniform. As we sang along, poppy-red confetti drifted down from the apse, a melancholy symbol of those who “gave their tomorrow for our today.” It was a goose bump moment. But every minute of this service was riveting: The music, the pageantry, the speakers, and just being in the presence of white-haired veterans who have served nobly in the past and today’s young men and women who will carry on in our behalf.

Why do I write now about this past event? Because it happens every year. Look for the 32nd Annual Service of Remembrance at Grace Cathedral next November. The cost of freedom is high; it’s a privilege to honor those who pay it.