For the loss we feel and the pain within;
For the memories we treasure and the love we shared
For all they were and still are in our hearts,
We will remember them.
Rev. Dyllis led the service on the Feast Day of All Souls, giving thanks for those we have loved and lost.
The reflective, meditative service was filled with abundant Christian hope, built on our belief that the door of death simply opens the door of Heaven for believers.
Readings from Psalm 103 and St. Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians, reinforced the message that God’s love is everlasting, and that through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we have nothing to fear. Death has lost its sting.
Prayers and hymns also echoed the central theme: Lord of all Hopefulness, How Great Thou Art and Thine be the Glory amongst others were threaded through this narrative of hope.
The names of those who have died in the parish over the last twelve months were read out. The list was long and solemn. Every member of the congregation was offered a petal to hold during this part of the service, a visible, tangible representation of a lost loved one. Once these were collected, they were scattered over the altar table by Rev. Dyllis as a reminder that our precious family members, friends and neighbours are close to God. This was followed by a shared Prayer of Faith:
In the rising of the sun and in its going down.
We remember them.
In the blowing of the wind and in the chill of winter.
We remember them.
In the opening of the buds and in the warmth of the summer.
We remember them.
In the rustling of the leaves and in the beauty of autumn.
We remember them.
In the beginning of the year and when it ends.
We remember them.
When we are weary and in need of strength.
We remember them.
When we have joys we yearn to share.
We remember them.
So long as we live, they too shall live, for they are now a part of us.
As we remember them.
Rest eternal, grant unto them.
And let light perpetual shine upon them.
Following the final hymn and blessing, everyone was invited to go up to the altar and light a candle in memory of a loved one, bringing this moving service to a close in a blaze of light…and hope.
