Work Place Chaplaincy Scotland Blog

An Unsung Heroine

Agnes ClimieLynne and Jacqueline went down to the dark and dusty basement to find some more loo rolls! When rummaging through cupboards they came across a treasure trove, not of money but the story of a heroine which had been forgotten for over 100 years ................

Agnes Climie, 32, was a strong and determined lady, but had been killed in WWI. Reflecting society’s thinking, when the monument in Newlands South Church had been commissioned, it only recorded the men of the congregation who had been killed. From Cathcart in Glasgow, Agnes became an experienced nurse at Stobhill hospital and was then deployed to France. She worked at the front line and although off duty went to the field hospital to comfort soldiers during an attack. She was sitting beside one fearful soldier and soothing him by singing when the fateful shell fell that killed them all.

Agnes's obituary in the British Journal of Nursing in 1917 stated: “Although not on duty during the raid, she went to her ward, and when killed was singing to a patient who was nervous.”

A memorial is being unveiled to her on Remembrance Sunday this year.

1918–2018, 100 years on, we remember the terribly high cost of lives lost in conflict, both known and unknown. Here is a beautiful example of one singing, but unsung heroine, Agnes Climie. She was buried in Longuenesse Cemetery in France, and thankfully her name does appear on other war memorials around Glasgow.

An inspiration to us to be singing (not necessarily literally – I clear the room when I sing!), bringing comfort, encouragement and life to those around us. Singing songs of peace and healing in this torn and tearing world.

Henri Nouwen, author of many books including ‘The Wounded Healer’ says: “Did I offer peace today? Did I bring a smile to someone's face? Did I say words of healing? Did I let go of my anger and resentment? Did I forgive? Did I love? These are the real questions. I must trust that the little bit of love that I sow now will bear many fruits, here in this world and the life to come.”

To read more go to: ://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-45611695 Or: http://www.scotlandswar.co.uk/pdf_Climie_Agnes_Murdoch.pdf.

And a special thanks to Jacqueline and Lynne of Newlands South Church, Glasgow, for sharing this story and picture.

If you want to get in touch then you can reach:

Geoff on geoff.findlay@wpcscotland.co.uk, 07933167480, or       Chic and Geoff 2018

Chic on chic.lidstone@dundeecity.gov.uk, 07814093240

Focus (Workplace Word, Chic Lidstone)
Visit to Cameron House Chaplaincy

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