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Speaking at a service of Remembrance and Reflection in Church House, Fisherwick Place, Belfast, between 1.00pm & 1.30pm today, Presbyterian Moderator Dr Sam Hutchinson has said that one of the best ways we can remember Diana, Princess of Wales is to ourselves engage in practical action as she did. 'The Princess of Wales has gone, but leprosy, Aids, homelessness and other forms of human misery are still with us.'
Speaking at what he called 'a people's service,' the Moderator said, 'We best remember the compassionate work of the Princess of Wales, as expressed in her association with over 100 charities, not just as an honorary figurehead, but as an active campaigner, when we decide that we too will engage in practical action. Today may be a day for looking back but it's also a day for looking forward, a day for rededication to the service of a loving God and the service of a suffering humanity.'
The Moderator reflected on his personal memories of the Princess whom he escorted during her visit to Church House in June 1992 as he addressed the audience mainly composed of city centre workers and including civic representatives and charity officials, indeed much the same mix of people who had been at Church House on that memorable day 5 years ago.
'Diana was not only the most photographed but the most reported woman in the world. We were unprepared for her passing, and even less prepared for the tidal wave of grief that swept across this country and far beyond. Such was the remarkable woman to whom we today pay tribute. Many people, charity workers, hospital patients have treasured memories of their Princess. They will never forget the day they met her, spoke to her or shook hands with her.'
Scripture lessons at the short 30 minute service were read by Belfast Lord Mayor, Cllr Alban Maginnis and John McMullan, Environmental Director at Bryson House and prayers were lead by representatives of Presbyterian Womans organisations, Presbyterian young people and the Synod of Belfast .
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