The Battlefield Language Academy in the Somme Department is once again preparing its third consecutive Truce event. We are really looking forward to rehearsing those songs we love: Jingle Bells, Silent Night, Adeste Fideles, Gaudete, Rudolph, Merry Xmas war is over ...etc... and so forth in three or four languages; and we are excited about introducing some new anti-war tunes: Pete Seeger & Co. watch this space.
The Christmas Truce Carol Service was created to bring a moment of peace, festivity and reasoned reflection into our lives in a geographical location that saw so much horror during the First World War.
People from different walks of life and different nations meet up in December in the church in Pozières to sing together and to listen to readings that evoke the need for pacifism and collective respect in a world where so much is imperfect.
The events in Iraq and Afghanistan have added to the poignancy of the Truce event.
After leaving the event in the church the congregation moves to another location where festive dishes (representing culinary preferences in different countries) await them. Singing makes you hungry - and thirsty. This year we will head to the village hall in Contalmaison for our post-Truce feast.
We hope you will join us. Visit Fabrice Colson's website for photos of the event and visit The Battlefield Language Academy's blog pages. Both can be found on our list of links.
