The Battle of the Somme began on 1 July 1916. There were more than one million casualties (on both sides) by the time it ended, after 141 days on 18 November 1916.
To mark 100 years since the Battle began, the government and the Royal British Legion invite communities across the nation to organise their own remembrance events, alongside national and international commemorations. As a response, the Liturgical Commission has prepared resources for parishes including readings and prayers to be used at a Service of Commemoration.
The Rt. Revd. Nigel McCulloch, head of remembrance at the Royal British Legion, told the BBC that the Battle of the Somme had "come to symbolise the tragic scale and futility of modern industrialised warfare". He said losses were felt by almost every community in the UK and Commonwealth. "Their collective sacrifice is as relevant today as ever, but in this centenary year we pay special tribute to their service," he said.
National events to mark the centenary were announced last year, including a commemorative service on 1 July at Manchester Cathedral.
It is hoped that evening vigils will be held on 30 June or on 1 July across the nation.
Resources, from the Liturgical Commission, to help your church prepare are available here: