As the world prepares to commemorate a pivotal moment in history, churches across Norfolk and Waveney are coming together to remember and reflect on the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. This significant milestone marks the end of the Second World War, a conflict that had a profound impact on communities around the globe. In the days leading up to the anniversary on May 8, 2025, churches in the Diocese of Norwich are hosting a variety of events that aim to bring people together and provide a moment of remembrance and reflection. From exhibitions and flower festivals to community suppers and beacon lightings, the events are a testament to the power of community spirit and the importance of remembering our shared history.
One of the key elements of the commemoration will be the ringing of church bells at 6:30 pm on VE Day, a tradition that echoes the sounds that swept across the country in 1945. This poignant moment will be a reminder of the joy and relief that was felt as the war finally came to an end. For many churches, the ringing of the bells will be a moment of great significance, a chance to connect with the past and honor the sacrifices that were made during the war. The Diocese of Norwich has made a range of resources available to support churches in marking VE Day 80, ensuring that communities have the tools they need to come together and remember this important moment in history. Whether it’s through exhibitions, services, or community events, the goal is to create a sense of unity and shared purpose, bringing people together to reflect on the past and look towards the future.
In the small village of Quidenham, St Andrew’s Church has been at the forefront of the VE Day commemorations, hosting a three-day Flowers & History Festival between May 2-4. The festival was a celebration of community spirit, with a range of activities and exhibitions that showcased the village’s history and heritage. Central to the event was an exhibition curated by Christine Patrick, whose family has a long history of worshiping in Quidenham. The exhibition featured a range of items, including a remarkable wedding dress made from parachute silk, a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of those living during wartime. The flower arrangements on display were made using only flowers that would have been available to ladies in the village during the war, adding a touch of authenticity to the event. With over 320 visitors attending the festival, it’s clear that the event was a huge success, bringing the community together and providing a moment of reflection and remembrance.
The success of the Flowers & History Festival is a testament to the power of community spirit and the importance of coming together to remember our shared history. The event was not motivated by fundraising, but rather by a desire to harness the community’s energy and enthusiasm ahead of the VE Day anniversary. By hosting the festival, St Andrew’s Church was able to bring people together, providing a moment of connection and shared purpose. The event also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving our history and heritage, ensuring that the stories and experiences of those who lived during wartime are not forgotten. As the community comes together to commemorate VE Day, it’s clear that the event will be a moment of great significance, a chance to reflect on the past and look towards the future.
On May 8, St Andrew’s Church will host a village-wide wartime supper in its Reading Room, followed by a beacon lighting on the village green. This event will be a poignant moment, a chance for the community to come together and mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. The supper will provide an opportunity for people to share stories and experiences, to reflect on the past and connect with one another. The beacon lighting will be a powerful symbol of hope and remembrance, a reminder of the sacrifices that were made during the war and the importance of preserving our freedom and way of life. As the community gathers to mark this significant milestone, it’s clear that the event will be a moment of great emotion and significance, a chance to honor the past and look towards the future.
The commemoration of VE Day 80 is a reminder that our shared history is a powerful force, one that can bring us together and provide a sense of unity and purpose. As churches across Norfolk and Waveney come together to remember and reflect on this significant milestone, it’s clear that the event will be a moment of great significance, a chance to connect with the past and honor the sacrifices that were made during the war. Whether it’s through exhibitions, services, or community events, the goal is to create a sense of shared purpose, bringing people together to reflect on the past and look towards the future. As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our history and heritage, ensuring that the stories and experiences of those who lived during wartime are not forgotten. By coming together to commemorate this significant milestone, we can honor the past, connect with one another, and look towards a brighter future.
