Beneath the shadow of St John’s Church, a Calvary cross stands. It is a silent sentinel, a First World War memorial. This is the St John’s Church War Memorial Cross.
Pause for a moment. Take in the details of the St John’s Church War Memorial Cross. It is more than stone and bronze. It is a testament to sacrifice.
Installed in late 1919, the St John’s Church War Memorial Cross replaced a temporary wooden marker. The bronze sculpture of Christ is believed to come from Paris. The artist remains unknown.
Notice the wooden cross. See the bronze figure of Christ at Calvary. There is also an INRI scroll.
Look closely at the limestone plinth. It splays out at both ends. The cornice bears inscriptions. A.M.D.G. graces the front. It is an abbreviation of Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam. This Latin motto means “For the greater glory of God”.
On the right, you will read GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN. The back says THAN THIS: THAT A MAN LAY. The left completes the thought DOWN HIS LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS.
Observe the stone section jutting out. A bronze plaque tells a story. It reads ERECTED BY THE NURSING STAFF / IN HONOUR OF THE PATIENTS WHO DIED / IN THE KING GEORGE HOSPITAL. The hospital served as a military facility during the war. H.M. Stationery Office Stamford Street created the plaque.
The St John’s Church War Memorial Cross bears another inscription. It honors those who gave their lives for their country. Names of King George Hospital’s deceased are on a parchment roll. This roll rests with the church records. Parishioners of St. John’s Church are remembered on the memorial’s three remaining panels.
Above this, find the words ETERNAL REST GRANT. The inscription continues around the St John’s Church War Memorial Cross. It reads TO THEM O LORD AND. Then it says MAY PERPETUAL LIGHT. Finally, it says SHINE UPON THEM.
The other three faces list the names of the fallen. The sections are concave. The entire structure stands on a two-step base.
Consider the dual purpose of this St John’s Church War Memorial Cross. It commemorates both hospital patients and church parishioners. The nursing staff’s dedication is especially touching. They erected part of the memorial.
The St John’s Church War Memorial Cross serves as an eloquent witness. It reflects the tragic impact of world events on the local community. It stands in group value with St John’s Church and other listed structures. Grade II listing protects this St John’s Church War Memorial Cross.
Take one last look. Remember the names etched in stone. Reflect on the sacrifices made. The St John’s Church War Memorial Cross stands as a permanent reminder. It ensures their stories are never forgotten.