Parkwood Crematorium in Elland has hosted the annual Calderdale Christmas Remembrance Service, for Calderdale families to remember loved ones in this particularly challenging year.
The service, which was broadcast via webcast for the first time, was held in the Chapel at Parkwood and led by the Reverend Canon Hilary Barber of Halifax Minster. The sermon was delivered by Reverend Colin Sherwood and prayers led by the Mayor of Calderdale, Councillor Dot Foster.
Readings were delivered by local Dignity Funeral branch staff who joined Calderdale Council’s Bereavement Services in coordinating the arrangements for the service. Staff also lit candles in remembrance of all those who have passed away this year as part of a moment of personal reflection.
The service was recorded and is available to view again. For details, please contact the office at Parkwood.crematorium@calderdale.gov.uk
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, Cllr Jenny Lynn, said:
“Every year, Parkwood hold a Christmas Remembrance Service to reflect upon and remember all those who have passed away either throughout the year or in past years.
“The service is always well attended, but obviously this year we were unable to welcome people into the Chapel as normal. To ensure people could still participate in the service, we made it available to view via webcast and a recording of the service is also available to watch again.
“This year has been especially difficult, and many may be grieving for a loved one. Services like this can give us all hope and help us understand we’re not alone.
“There is support available for anyone who is struggling with grief. Visit www.calderdale.gov.uk and search ‘Bereavement Services’ for information.”
The Mayor of Calderdale, Cllr Dot Foster, said:
“I was honoured to attend this year’s Christmas Remembrance Service at Parkwood Crematorium. Unfortunately we weren’t able to be joined by Calderdale residents as normal, but the intimate and respectful service added extra poignancy to the occasion.
“The service is a time to remember, but also an opportunity to look to the future, something which I feel is particularly important after such a challenging year.”