Candlelighting ceremony for bereaved parents

The Compassionate Friends will be hosting their annual Candlelighting Ceremony at Stirling Presbyterian Church on Monday 22 November 22 at 7pm.

Myrtle Fleming, the organisation’s East London chapter leader and international spokesperson, said all bereaved parents and their families were welcome to attend.

“The Compassionate Friends is a worldwide family of bereaved parents and their families caring for each other, regardless of age, cause or belief, after the loss of a child.

“The event of Covid has prevented us from holding our regular monthly meetings which is sad indeed because the deaths of children continues and now includes young people due to Covid, among the car accidents, illness, suicides and other deaths.

“However we continue to reach out to newly bereaved parents with literature and making personal contact,” she said.

“At this time of the year, with Christmas approaching, our loss is felt even more deeply as we are unable to celebrate the fun and excitement of family reunions and festivities as we once did with our children. We are particularly aware of the empty chair and the unfilled Christmas stocking.”

Compassionate Friends were unable to host the ceremony last year due to lockdown restrictions but Fleming said they were happy to be able to bring it back.

“Stan de Villiers from the Christian Bikers Club will give the address.

“The ceremony is aimed at helping bereaved parents prepare for the holiday season and is our way of including our sons and daughters, siblings and grandchildren. The evening is dedicated to them.

“Candles will be available for a donation at the service. As we no longer have the pleasure of buying gifts for our own children, you may like to bring a gift in their memory in the form of non-perishable food for those in need.”

Due to Covid protocols, only 80 people will be able to attend so booking is required. Entries colse on November 15.

To book a spot or to find out more information, call 083-973-6108.