Church Hosts Remembrance Day Service in Salford, Greater Manchester

A historic Salford church, whose rich heritage has been overlooked for many years, became a place of remembrance today as Debre Selam Kidist Selassie Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church in Manchester brought together a city councillor, church representatives and local residents to honour those who lost their lives in war.

The Remembrance Day service, organised and hosted by our congregation at the war memorial in St John’s Churchyard, was attended by Councillor Wilson Nkurunziza of Salford City Council.

The memorial commemorates 152 people who died during the First World War. Four servicemen who died in the years following the conflict are also buried in the churchyard.

Our congregation purchased St John’s Church in 2017, becoming the owners and custodians of the Grade II listed building and its historic war memorial. As custodians, we organised today's commemoration in recognition of our responsibility to honour those remembered here, care for the memorial and preserve this important part of Salford's shared heritage for future generations.

The Church Development Committee highlighted the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church's centuries-old experience in preserving historic buildings and cultural heritage. It emphasised the vital importance of safeguarding historic places and passing their heritage to future generations, an objective shared by many heritage funding organisations.

The committee also highlighted our growing congregation of over 1,000 people, whose continued growth offers an opportunity to bring renewed life to the building as an active place of Christian worship and a valued community landmark.

Restoration work at St John’s Church has been ongoing, and wider support from heritage funders and community partners is essential to preserve its historic significance, including the war memorial and the stories of those commemorated today, for future generations.

The service included a period of silence and reflection in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

We sincerely thank Councillor Wilson Nkurunziza, local residents and everyone who joined us for this meaningful occasion.

Honouring the past, preserving our heritage and serving future generations.