Children’s Bereavement Centre Christmas Candlelight Service at Newark Parish Church

Bereaved families came together in a special service of remembrance for their loved ones.

The families gathered in Newark Parish Church as part of The Children’s Bereavement Centre’s sixth annual Christmas Candlelight Service.

Everyone was welcome to attend, not just those with a direct link to the charity.

Candles were lit as the names of lost loved ones were read out to the congregation. Scrolls with the names were also displayed.

The Children’s Bereavement Centre say that they understand Christmas can be a difficult time for those who have been bereaved of a loved one.

They believe it is important that the service is held to bring people together and show that they are not alone.

This year's service was themed around stars. Barnby Road Academy choir performed a song called Catch a Star by Suzie Vango and the congregation joined in to sing twinkle twinkle little star. After candles had been lit, a reading called Star Light took place alongside readings from CBC service users and staff members and the congregation were invited to sing We three Kings, and The First Noel together.

Paula Drummond, bereavement team lead at Children’s Bereavement Centre reflected on this year’s event, saying: “The candlelight service is so special. It was a moving and beautiful tribute to those we love, who are no longer with us, allowing all who attended, time and space to pause and reflect”