Ceremony to honour Commonwealth Day 2025

A special flag flying ceremony to honour this year’s Commonwealth Day is taking place at County Hall in Dorchester on Monday 10 March.

The event, starting at 10am, will bring people together to reflect on the values of unity, diversity, and peace that connect the 56 member nations of the Commonwealth, including Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe, and the Pacific.

Members of the public are invited to attend the ceremony, which is hosted by Chair of Dorset Council, Cllr Stella Jones MBE.

The ceremony will start with an Opening Prayer by Revd John Yarrien, followed by the Commonwealth Affirmation, read by Cllr Jones.

 A message from His Majesty the King, will be read by HM Lord-Lieutenant Mr Michael Dooley LVO.

The Commonwealth Flag will be raised by Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet before a message from the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, is read by the High Sheriff of Dorset Mr Anthony Woodhouse.

The closing Prayer will be conducted by the Revd John Yarrien.  

Cllr Jones said: “This year’s Commonwealth Day theme is ‘Together We Thrive’, celebrating the enduring spirit of the Commonwealth Family.  Hundreds of Commonwealth flags will be raised in unison throughout the UK and the 56 Commonwealth nations.

“The theme reminds us of the importance of building strong, connected communities where members support each other to make real progress.”

Find out more:  Commonwealth Day 2025 | Commonwealth