21 June Service of Lament
All are welcome to Belfast Cathedral to join with the 2023 Service of Lament from 11.30am on Wednesday 21st June, the longest day of the year. This date is increasingly recognised as a day to remember the full cost of the violence of the Northern Ireland Troubles.
Using the biblical practice of Lament, this service offers a space to reflect on the conflict in and about Northern Ireland and the future that is before us. The service seeks to create a space to acknowledge our deep hurt and pain, to reflect on what we might have done or might still do, and to commit to ensure that such loss and suffering never happens again.
The service, now in its third year, is a partnership between Corrymeela and Belfast Cathedral along with Healing Through Remembering, The Wave Trauma Centre and St John's Parish.
The service places the voices of those who suffered most through violence along with voices representing the churches. However the service also makes extensive use of silence, music and shared participation for those who wish.
The service will also be Livestreamed on YouTube and can be found at: https://youtube.com/@CorryCentre
This year the Order of Service is also offered for those in their local communities who wish to use this longest day for their own community Service of Lament. The Order of Service can be found below
