Community Invited to Remember Loved Ones at Christmas Candlelight Services

Communities in Balderton and Mansfield are invited to gather for special Christmas Candlelight Services, designed to remember and honour loved ones who have passed away. Organised by the Children’s Bereavement Centre, these annual events offer a supportive environment for reflection during the festive season.

This year, the services will take place on two separate evenings. The first will be held at St Giles Church in Balderton on December 4 at 18:30. The second service is set for St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Mansfield on December 9, also at 18:30. Both events are free, family-friendly, and open to everyone, regardless of whether they have previously accessed support from the Centre.

Attendees can participate in candle lighting, readings, and singing traditional hymns and Christmas songs. The Balderton service will feature performances by local groups including Norwell Village Voices, Chuter Ede Primary School, and Barnby Road Choirs. Following the services, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy hot chocolate and mince pies, fostering a sense of community and warmth.

For those unable to attend in person, the Children’s Bereavement Centre offers a virtual option to light a candle online through their Christmas Candlelight Tribute Page at: https://christmascandlelight.memorypage.org/. Individuals wishing to have their loved one’s name read during the service can contact Julie at 01636 551739 or via email at [email protected], specifying the name and the chosen venue.

The Centre aims to provide comfort and a moment of remembrance during a time when many feel the absence of loved ones even more acutely. These candlelight services serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and shared experiences during the festive season.