British Cathedral Site of WW II Commemoration

Beneath the dome that survived the Blitz bombings, the Royal Family and foreign dignitaries gathered Sunday for a ceremony of reconciliation at St. Paul’s Cathedral as Britain commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany.

Later, Queen Elizabeth II was joined by more than 50 heads of state and government in Hyde Park for a concert for peace that closed with the release of thousands of doves of peace from a huge floral globe.

The queen was accompanied to the concert by senior members of the Royal Family, including the estranged Prince and Princess of Wales with their sons, Princes William and Harry.

At the main religious event at the commemorations, the Archbishop of Canterbury reminded the congregation of the symbolic role St. Paul’s played during the war.

“Its magnificent dome standing high above the fires of the Blitz had been a symbol of hope, freedom and faith for millions,” Archbishop George Carey said.

The archbishop urged people not to forget the past “for the sake of all our futures.”

“Memories grow dim,” he said. “New generations are born (that) have never known the horror of world war. For the sake of all our futures, we must recall the past.”

The archbishop stressed the importance of reconciliation between nations, races, colors and creeds.

In a direct message to the leaders present at the service, he said, “Whether as political or religious leaders, it is our duty to continue to seek the way of peace for this and future generations.”

During the afternoon, the host of dignitaries boarded eight London buses for the short trip to Hyde Park--where the air was festive and a crowd of more than 100,000 had turned out for the open-air music performance.

A European Union youth orchestra and choir played themes from various nations, and young children led the world leaders by the hand to sign olive leaves as symbols of peace.

In the royal box, Jordan’s King Hussein sat next to Queen Elizabeth. Vice President Al Gore represented the United States.