V J Day 2025

15 August
VJ Day marks the anniversary of 15 August 1945 when Japan announced its surrender to the Allied forces.
The surrender was met with relief and celebration that after six long years the Second World War was finally over.
While millions took part in parades and street parties, there was also great sadness – the human cost was enormous and many eagerly awaited the safe return of loved ones.
Over 90,000 British troops were casualties in the war against Japan – 30,000 died and 37,500 were held as prisoners of war.
For hundreds of thousands of service personnel from Britain and the Commonwealth, it would take many months to be reunited with loved ones,
some of whom they hadn’t seen for more than five years.

https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/events/remembrance-events/vj-day

Collect for peace:
Almighty God,
from whom all thoughts of truth and peace proceed:
kindle in the hearts of all people the true love of peace;
and guide with your pure and peaceable wisdom
those who take counsel for the nations of the earth;
that in tranquillity your kingdom may go forward,
till the earth is filled with the knowledge of thy love;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Prayer for those who serve today:
O Lord God of Hosts,
stretch forth, we pray, your almighty arm
to strengthen and protect our service men and women.
Support them in times of conflict,
and in their rest and training keep them safe from all evil;
endue them with courage and loyalty;
and grant that in all things they may serve without reproach;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen

Common Worship: Times and Seasons, pp.579-80