Maple Leaves Forever supported the planting of 175 Native Maple trees at the home of Trenton’s Afghanistan Repatriation Memorial. The trees were planted both to honour 175 of our fallen service members and to commemorate the 175th anniversary of sponsor St. George’s Anglican Church.
On November 4th, 2021, in the days leading up to Remembrance Day, there was a special dedication ceremony to commemorate the addition of these memorial trees at this prominent community green space. The project was a joint effort of Highway of Heroes and Maple Leaves Forever.
The following prayer was written by Rev. Lynn Mitchell for the occasion.
God of Creation,
as we gather here to bless the earth
and to celebrate the potential of the trees before us,
we ask that they may serve as living memorials to
loved ones, to those who steadfastly serve this
community, and as a living tribute to 175 soldiers
who made the supreme sacrifice for their country.
As these trees root themselves ever more deeply in the
ground, may we likewise root ourselves more deeply in
love, compassion, and faithfulness.
As these trees grow straight and tall,
may we likewise grow in courage, resilience, and
commitment to serving the common good.
As the branches of these trees extend ever wider,
may we likewise extend our efforts to achieve peace
and justice for all people, working together to overcome
those things which continue to divide us.
Creator God we ask that you bless these trees,
and we pray for the repose of the souls in whose loving
memory they have been so carefully planted.
We ask a blessing upon this monument, which will
stand here as a place of remembrance and reflection
for generations to come.
And we ask for your blessing upon all of us gathered
today, that, with humility and in your grace, we may
move forward as good and faithful stewards of this
earth and its people.
We pray, so be it, Amen.
Written by
The Rev. Lynn Mitchell Ɨ
Rector, St. George’s Anglican Church
Padre, Trenton Legion Branch 100
November 2021
