NASH DOM, or the Russianspeaking and Eastern European Community Support and Business Development Centre, recently held a Walk of Honour in Birmingham in remembrance of Polish President Lech Kaczyński and others who died in the air crash at Smolensk-North airport, writes Józef Łopuszyński.
The walkers passed through the city centre on Wednesday April 14. Giorgi Pertaia, chairman of Nash Dom and head of the Georgian Department, said: “We all together did feel this is a most decent and human gesture to be there for Polish community and the whole Polish nation to share their condolence.
“This is truly a tragedy that will be remembered and mourned for a long time. Let us turn this terrible event into an opportunity to reflect on our own lives and truly appreciate and change them, as a token to remembrance of those who lost them.
“Our deepest regrets and wishes to stay strong in the face of shocking disaster to all Polish people and the families of all directly affected by the tragedy. May the Lord give you comfort, strength and much encouragement in this difficult time.
“We are here to support you, and to weep with you. We all pray that God will help Poland to recover from this devastating loss.” The walk started at Victoria Square by the Town Hall and went down New Street before turning into High Street, ending at St Michael’s church where a concelebrated Mass took place, mainly in Polish. Among the organisers were Juraj Modrak, director of Nash Dom, Natalya Jergina, Deirdre LaBassiere and Verona Davis.