The theme of the service was 'Consider the Lilies'. Photo: Marc Gascoigne.
London homeless remembered
149 names were read at a recent commemoration service
The names of 149 people were read aloud at an annual commemoration service at St Martin-in-the-Fields recently. All were homeless or formerly homeless, and all had died in the last year in London.
The service, organised by The Connection at St Martin’s, St Martin-in-the-Fields and Housing Justice, brought together everyone who wanted to remember those who had died during the year, whether still on the streets, in hostels or in accommodation after being homeless.
Reverend Richard Carter of St Martin-in-the-Fields led the service. He said: ‘The theme this year was “Consider the Lilies”, from the gospel of Matthew, which speaks to us about the eternal worth of each human life. It is our prayer that those who may have often felt “outsiders” may be remembered at the heart of this city, and in a church which celebrates the inclusive love of God for all.’
The service featured readings and musical performances from Streetwise Opera and the Choir with no Name.
Trustee Anna Sikorska attended on behalf of Quaker Homeless Action (QHA).
The Quaker Christmas Shelter, organised by QHA, is held annually at Union Chapel, Highbury Corner, Islington, London, from 23 to 30 December.
