All things must pass, but memories are lasting.

*Rev Eleanor Hayden with Canon Robert Clarke, Co-Chairman of Omagh Churches Forum.*

On Sunday 13th August 2023 at 3:00pm, the community of Omagh stood united in an outpouring of solidarity.

In a very moving, peaceful and dignified gathering, representatives from various organisations including Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, alongside Omagh Support and Self-help group and Families Moving On, paid a fitting tribute to those killed, injured and traumatised by the bombing on the 15th August, 1998.

A respectful silence descended as members of Omagh Churches Forum conducted the Service of Remembrance, reflecting on the worst atrocity that tore the heart from community life; leaving families devastated in its wake.

Condolences and sympathies echoed within the Memorial Garden as the 31 names of those killed were read out. An overwhelmingly solemn atmosphere descended as the occasion was formally marked. The service of remembrance included prayers for the healing and wellbeing of the community, and for political leadership that would work for peace, campaign for justice and strive for compassion.

The desire for wisdom, compassion, vision and courage in efforts to seek reconciliation, truth, and forgiveness held the act of Remembrance together in unified faith.

Fittingly, Daryl’s Simpsons song, ‘Come Join Us at the Water’ was performed by Omagh Community Youth Choir (a choir set-up in the aftermath of Omagh bomb), this heartened the gathering with ‘young voices’ reflecting a positive message of hope for the future. An inspiring piece of music entitled, ‘A Flower Remembered[1]’ was beautifully sung as dappled sunlight scattered random clouds.

Finally, local clergy stood together, mindful of hurting hearts and painful memories as they recited the concluding blessing:

‘Go forth into the world in peace;
be of good courage; hold fast that which is good;
support the weak; help the afflicted;
show love to everyone.
Love and serve the Lord,
rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit’.

A strong but gentle breeze reminiscent of God’s Holy Spirit touched the community as family members lay flowers in memory of loved ones taken by the bomb 25 years ago.

A clear message of love and hope filtered throughout the gathering, drawing on a sense of unity that speaks volumes beyond all those differences that threaten to divide. The gathering dispersed, finding renewed comfort and courage in a shared story that will never be forgotten.

With special thanks to Rev Eleanor Hayden for sharing her account of the Memorial Service.

[1] Composed by Joh Rutter in memory of the victims of the Tokyo area earthquake and tsunami, of March 2011, and song by a young person named Lucy Reid. The circumstance are different, yet the lyrics where particularly pertinent to all who gathered for the memorial.