Events will offer an opportunity for reflection, remembrance, and a renewed commitment to peace, echoing the spirit of unity that defined the end of the Second World War in Europe.
On 8th May 2025, communities will come together to honour the sacrifices made by those who served in the conflict and to pray for lasting peace both at home and abroad. The Church of England is providing resources and encouraging parishes to engage in acts of commemoration and prayer.
Free resources are now online for parishes and communities to use.
A key element of the commemoration will be the ringing of church bells at 6.30pm on VE Day. Echoing the sounds that swept across the country in 1945, churches and cathedrals are invited to ring their bells as a collective act of thanksgiving.
Parishes are also encouraged to hold services to commemorate the anniversary. Worship resources are also available to assist clergy and lay leaders in planning these acts of worship, providing a framework for remembrance, reflection, and prayer.
Individuals will also have the opportunity to light a virtual candle online to honour loved ones who were part of the war effort.
To help publicise local events, churches can now add an ‘80th Anniversary of VE Day’ tag to their services and events listed on AChurchNearYou.com. This will enable members of the public to easily find and participate in commemorations taking place in their local communities.
The Church of England has also provided a selection of prayers suitable for use in services and personal devotion, including For those who served and died in the Second World War: A prayer of remembrance and gratitude for their sacrifice; For those who serve today: a prayer for the strength and protection of current service personnel; and For the peace of the world: a prayer for reconciliation, unity, and an end to conflict.
The Bishop of St Germans, Hugh Nelson, the lead Bishop for the Armed Forces, said:
“The 80th anniversary of VE Day is a moment of profound significance for our nation. It is a time to remember with deep gratitude the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today.
“In an increasingly dangerous world, I encourage all our churches to participate in these commemorations, to ring their bells, to offer prayers for peace, and to provide spaces for their communities to come together in remembrance. As we honour the past, so we renew our commitment to building a more peaceful and just world for all.”
Further information about national commemorations for both VE Day and the 80th anniversary of VJ Day on 15th August 2025 can be found on the government’s dedicated website.