ANZAC service at St Andrew’s Cathedral

Margaret Rodgers | 19 April 2007

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A Special Anzac Service will be held in St Andrew’s Anglican Cathedral, George Street Sydney at 10.30am on Sunday 22nd April.

The service will have a twin focus. First, the service will include remembrance and honouring of the courage and contribution of Australian Forces personnel who fought in wars during the last century and in recent years. Secondly, special remembrance and prayer for the Australian Forces personnel and members of the Federal Police who are currently serving on behalf of the Australian community in overseas arenas of war and conflict.

The Dean of Sydney, Phillip Jensen said “At present the Australian Forces are serving in the Middle East, Sinai Peninsula, Sudan, East Timor, Afghanistan, Solomon Islands, Iraq and the Persian Gulf. The Federal Police have members serving in thirty-six countries.

“These men and women represent us, and are risking their lives at our nation’s request,” Dean Jensen said. “We owe them a debt of gratitude for being willing to serve, and the assurance of our support of them and their families”

The Rev Andrew Nixon, Lieutenant Commander, RANR will lead the Service and Dean Phillip Jensen will preach the sermon. Bible readings will be given by Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir, Governor of New South Wales, and Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, Chief of the Defence Force. Prayers will be led by the Rev Tim Booker, former Chaplain 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment and rear Admiral Davyd Thomas, Commander Australian Fleet.

The Australian Army Band will be playing. Mr Don Rowe President RSL NSW Branch will lead the recitation of the Ode and the laying of wreaths.

Many Forces and Police leaders will be present, as well as diplomatic and political representatives and also Commissioner Mick Keelty, Commissioner of Australian Federal Police and Commissioner Ken Moroney, Commissioner of NSW Police..

Members of the general public are warmly invited to attend, and especially families of forces and police personnel currently serving overseas.

Media are invited to film, record and report the Service. There will be some rows of seating set aside for media; those planning to attend please advise Margaret Rodgers (0411 692 499) prior to the service

CONTACT:
Margaret Rodgers (w) 9265 1507 (m) 0411 692 499
Kay Terrey (m) 0412 989 083