Remember a loved one this Christmas: ellenor Lights of Love service

Individuals, families and communities across Kent will come together in memory of loved ones at the Lights of Love services in December.

The death of a loved one is never easy but at Christmas time, when friends and family gather, absences can be magnified. At ellenor, we know that at this special time people need our care more than ever – they feel the loss of those they hold dear even more, which is why we hold our Lights of Love services on Saturday 8 December, 3-7pm.

Our uplifting and heart-warming services offer all families – including those who haven’t been supported by ellenor’s services - an opportunity to remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones who are no longer with us.It is a time to share in the remembrance of a life lived and show mutual support for family and friends.

"When you walk through the door, the atmosphere at ellenor is so caring. The staff have been so supporting of our family in our time of need and helped us through this difficult time. We have found the Lights of Love services hugely comforting and an opportunity to come together to remember our loved ones in a special way.Please support this brilliant worthwhile charity to help other families in their time of need.” – Kay

By donating to the Lights of Love appeal, you can dedicate one or more lights on our Christmas tree in memory of your loved one. It’s a special way to commemorate their life whilst helping other local families coping with terminal illness this Christmas. The name of your loved one or loved ones will be displayed in the annual Lights of Love book which you can view throughout the year at ellenor Gravesend.

This year to meet demand two services will take place at ellenor, Coldharbour Road, Gravesend; the first service at 3:30pm and the second at 6pm (doors open 3-7pm).The non-denominational services are an opportunity to pause for reflection and through music, readings and the lighting of candles, commemorate lives and loves past. During the afternoon you can also light a candle and write a message on a Christmas star, which you are then welcome to either take it home or hang it on our indoor tree, in remembrance of your loved one.

There will also be an opportunity to treat yourself to a delicious mince pie and warming beverage, and a selection of Christmas cards and gifts from our ellenor shops.

If you would like to dedicate a light on our Christmas tree in memory of someone special please visit www.ellenor.org/lights-of-love or call our Supporter Care Team on 01322 626509.

Head of Wellbeing, Dr Russ Hargreaves said, “Christmas can be a wonderful time for many, but we are reminded every year of how difficult it can be for some. It is a real milestone for friends and families after a loss and we recognise the importance of stopping for a moment and celebrating the lives of our loved ones”.