National Day of Mourning – Newland Port Elliot Uniting Church Reflection at Victor Harbor

By Wayne Colebatch

Posted Sep 27, 2022 in News

Many may be aware of the successful ‘Reflections’ time each Thursday morning at Victor Harbor.

This initiative commenced several years ago during COVID-19 austerity and has proven to be popular for those seeking a tranquil space each week in the ambience of reflective piano and pipe organ music and with an opportunity for a chat and coffee afterwards.

Many attendees come from other Christian denominations along with others who choose not to align with a church. It is clear that they appreciate the dignified space and music offered at ‘Reflections’ in conjunction with their usual worship or more universal spiritual understanding.

The National Day of Mourning commemorating the life, service and example of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was also on a Thursday so it was decided that the usual ‘Reflections’ should be elevated to acknowledge this special public holiday of mourning and to invite the wider inclusion of the general public.

A member of the congregation offered to fund a banner for the prominent location of the church and its significant presence. Within a matter of days following Her Majesty’s death, a most appropriate offering of music was prepared and provided by one off the three rostered musicians on the grand piano and pipe organ. This included the hymns sung at Her Majesty’s funeral services at Westminster Abbey and St George’s Chapel, Windsor along with appropriate music from various Requiem Masses.

A simple liturgy of prayers was offered along with quotes from Her Majesty’s experience of abiding personal faith.

This significant event was recorded and a professional video made as a gift from a member of the congregation. Local Member of Parliament Mr David Basham was present with an official condolence book. It was pleasing to have 77 people in attendance for this unique and successful time of reflection involving the extended community at Victor Harbor and beyond.

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