On Sunday 4th July Major Gerald Peacock (Luton North) welcomed Rotary to the Salvation Army Corps in Luton. In recognition of the ethics and standards that underpin Rotary Service, a multi-faith service was held in Luton. This was the first time that such a service had been held and it was extremely well received and appreciated by all who attended.

Major Gerald led the celebrations and DGN Debbie Hodge gave an address that reflected on one of our core objectives, the promotion of peace, goodwill and understanding. 

Debbie reminded us of the service that Rotarians in D1260 have given to enable amongst many schemes, a place for young carers to go to meet each other to talk, to play and to laugh and the rehabilitation of child soldiers, helping them to find peace and learn to be children again. Debbie reinforced our need for 'peace of mind, peace of heart and peace among peoples'.

Major Gerald thought it would be fun to teach us all a new song! The song was 'Shalom my Friends' and all was going so well until Gerald informed us this could be sung in a round with the three ideal groups in front of him; let's just say that singing is not the best talent I possess and I wasn't alone!

Following song and reflection, Rotarians were invited to reconfirm the objects of Rotary and as we start this new Rotary year I thought it would be good to reproduce here:

• The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service
• High ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society
• The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian’s personal, business and community life.
• The advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.

There was plenty of time for fellowship after all enjoyed with tea and some very yummy cake! Our time together on Sunday proved  a great  start to this year of Building Communities, Bridging Continents, and I'd liketo offer big Rotary THANK YOU to Gerald and everyone at the Salvation Army Corps in Luton.