HUNDREDS of people packed into Worcester Cathedral to remember loved ones in the annual St Richard’s Hospice Lights of Love service.
In the afternoon service, around 400 people heard readings and singing from King’s Hawford School choir and lit candles in remembrance of loved ones.
One thousand people filled the Cathedral for the evening service which was led by the Very Reverend Dr Peter Atkinson, Dean of Worcester and St Richard’s Hospice Chaplain Clare Griffiths with singing from the RGS chamber choir.
Following the evening service hundreds gathered around nearby St Andrew’s Spire by candlelight to see the switch on of the lights of love on the Christmas tree and the names of their loved ones displayed on boards surrounding the tree.
Kristina Doran and her family flicked the switch in memory of their mother Magdelena Wagstaff who had been cared for by St Richard’s Hospice.
“It would be four years to the day on Christmas Eve that mum passed away at St Richard’s Hospice,” said Mrs Doran.
“The days at home leading up to mum’s death were truly heart-breaking and the most difficult of times.
“St Richard’s was a sanctuary in what felt like endless suffering.
“Like most, we hadn’t considered the importance of hospice care until we found ourselves in dire need of it.
“Like most, I considered hospices to be miserable, depressing places to be. I would never have anticipated the dedication and kindness that embodies St Richard’s Hospice,” she added.
St Richard’s Hospice senior fund-raiser Alison Parkes said: “Lights of Love brings comfort and support to many and is close to our hearts. It’s such a special, moving occasion and full of love.”
“Already more than 2,400 names have been dedicated this year and donations of over £33,000 so far towards our hospice care, which is a wonderful amount from our community.”
Lights of Love services will also be held at Great Malvern Priory on Tuesday, December 6 at 6pm which includes a choir from Malvern St James school performing.
Anyone who has lost a loved one is welcome to dedicate a light and attend the services, not just those who have a connection with St Richard’s.
The names of loved ones will be displayed on boards surrounding the tree in St Andrew’s Spire, Worcester and in a Books of Thanksgiving placed in Worcester Cathedral and The Priory in Malvern throughout December
Visit www.strichards.org.uk/lightsoflove or call 01905 763963 for more information.
