Together We Stand
Commemorating Victory In Europe Day 80
1945-2025
Monday 5th May – Thursday 8th May
The Hospital came together throughout the week for a number of commemoration events to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. Victory in Europe Day, known as VE Day, on 8th May marks the day the Allies formally accepted Germany’s surrender in 1945. Many of our residents had family and friends who served in the armed forces, worked in essential reserved occupations and contributed to the war effort. Some have family who continue that tradition today as members of His Majesty’s Armed Forces. Also within our Staff we have armed forces veterans and retired chaplains.
A Musical Celebration
to Mark the Beginning
of VE Day Commemoration Week
Our Brothers and Sisters, together with their families and friends, friends of the Hospital, Trustees, and staff, gathered to enjoy a joyful musical celebration marking VE Day and the vibrant spirit of the post-war years. Featuring beloved songs from musicals of the era, the event beautifully captured the atmosphere of commemoration and hope that defined that historic time.
This uplifting evening served as the opening event in a week of celebration and remembrance—a programme designed to span the generations, honouring the past while inspiring reflection and unity in the present.
Vigil Mass for Peace
and Service of Commemoration
followed by a
Celebration Afternoon Tea Party
and Film
The Brothers, Sisters, Staff, and Volunteers gathered with the Master in the Chapel of the Holy Cross for a Vigil Mass and Act of Commemoration on the eve of the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. This poignant occasion offered the Hospital community a time to pray for peace in the world today and to reflect on the hopes and sacrifices of our Nation and the Commonwealth as they stood on the threshold of victory in 1945.
For some of our residents, the evening was also a chance to share personal memories of the night before VE Day—stories that brought history to life and reminded us of the enduring human spirit in times of hardship and hope.
Following the Mass, the community moved to Ebor Hall to enjoy a screening of A Royal Night Out and a delightful afternoon tea. A highlight of the occasion was the splendid cake, lovingly created and donated by members of the community and their families—an expression of fellowship and celebration that truly captured the spirit of the day.
VE Day 80 Proclamation
and Flag Raising Ceremony –
Together We Stand
At 8.55, on the eightieth anniversary of VE Day, Local Councillors, Staff, Volunteers and Brothers and Sisters joined gathered by the Old Porter’s Lodge to hear the VE Day 80 Proclamation. The Proclamation was read by the Master, Canon Andrew Sage SSC. Simultaneously the Porter, Mr Stuart Nicholson, raised the special VE Day 80 Flag, as the Hospital community marked the National Day of Commemoration – Together We Stand for this significant event in our nation’s history.
VE Day Thanksgiving Mass,
Services of Commemoration
and Compline
VE Day 80 – Remembering, Honouring, Praying for Peace
On the 8th of May 2025, we joined the nation in marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day — a moment of deep reflection and gratitude for the sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace.
Many of our residents carry a personal connection to the events of the Second World War. Their loved ones served in the armed forces, worked in essential reserved occupations, and supported the war effort in countless quiet yet vital ways. For some, that commitment to service continues today through family members who serve in His Majesty’s Armed Forces.
Within our own staff community, we are privileged to count armed forces veterans and retired chaplains among us. Their presence brings a living link to our reflections, enriching our understanding of service, sacrifice, and the cost of conflict.
As part of the national commemorations and the wider Christian family, we held in our prayers all those affected by war — past and present. We gave thanks for peace and remembered those for whom peace came too late.
At 7:00 p.m., we gathered once more in the Chapel for the Lamp Lights of Peace Vigil, joining people across the United Kingdom in shining a light to symbolise the hope that emerged from the darkness of war. It was a powerful moment of unity, remembrance, and quiet strength.
We concluded the day with the service of Compline — night prayer — standing together in stillness, drawing the day to a close in faith and peace.
Let us continue to remember. Let us continue to pray for peace.
