More than 240 people packed into The Sacred Heart Church in Droitwich on Tuesday 25th November as part of the St Richard’s Hospice Lights of Love campaign, and remembered someone special to them.
Those attending the service took time for quiet reflection and were entertained by the Dodderhill choir and the St Richard’s Singers, a choir of hospice staff and volunteers. Following the service, people were invited to enjoy delicious homemade mince pies at the Parish Hall.
The Lights of Love service at the Sacred Heart Church was one of a series organised by the hospice, and followed celebrations at Worcester Cathedral. After the evening service at Worcester Cathedral, those attending took part in a candle lit procession to nearby St Andrew’s Spire. Here the Lights of Love were switched on at the Christmas tree by Jem Cooke, from Worcester, and his family who were remembering his father Dennis who had been cared for by the charity. A service was held for the first time at Pershore Abbey, on Thursday 27th November, and the final service will take place at The Great Malvern Priory on Tuesday 2nd December.
Those dedicating Lights of Love have donated more than £44,000 so far to support the hospice’s work caring for patients with life-threatening illnesses and supporting their families.
The names of loved ones will be displayed on boards in Droitwich Library, surrounding the tree in St Andrew’s Spire, Worcester and in a Book of Thanksgiving placed in Worcester Cathedral and The Priory in Malvern throughout December.
Over 2,500 names have now been dedicated in memory of loved ones. Local residents can still dedicate a Light of Love and those who donate will also receive a photo decoration to hang on their Christmas tree at home.
Anyone who has lost a loved one is welcome to dedicate a light, not just those who have a connection with St Richard’s.
St Richard’s Hospice Senior Community Fundraiser Alison Parkes said: “The services were very moving and appreciated by so many people. We are very grateful to all those who all those who have made such generous donations and dedicated a light in memory. The money raised through these dedications will help St Richard’s continue to offer compassionate care to patients at the end of their lives and support their loved ones through their bereavement.”
Anyone wishing to make a dedication should either telephone the Fundraising Department on 01905 763963 or visit the hospice’s website atwww.strichards.org.uk/lightsoflove. Dedications can be made until Monday 15thDecember. Those dedicating a Light of Love can choose to have the names of their loved ones printed in the Worcester News on Christmas Eve.
Photo: (L:R) Rod Waugh, St Richard’s Hospice volunteer chaplain, Sophie Williams, Danniella Moore, Isabella Vinson, pupils at Dodderhill School, Alison Parkes St Richard’s Hospice Senior Fundraiser