University Hospital Galway is hosting a special mass for parents who have suffered the loss of a child next Sunday.
Parents and their families who have experienced the death of a child before birth, shortly after birth or at a later stage are invited to attend and remember their loved ones.
The Mass of Remembrance, which is organised by the UHG Children’s Remembrance Day Committee, will take place on Sunday, June 11 at 2.30pm in Church of Mary Immaculate Queen, Barna.
The theme for this year’s mass is “Remembered with love”. The guest speaker John Kelly, beavered father, will reflect on this theme.
During the Mass, Books of Remembrance with the names of those who have died will be presented to the Altar. The readings and reflections for the Mass are chosen specially with the congregation in mind.
The Chairperson of the Children’s Remembrance Day Committee, Maura Mannion, says, “There is a need for a special day for parents and families to share their grief in an understanding and empathetic environment.”
“I would encourage anybody who would like their loved one to be included in this special Mass to contact us in advance. Support lets the bereaved person know that there are people there that they can call on
“Following the Mass, light refreshments will be served in the Cillin attached to the church and the committee look forward to meeting with families to listen to their stories as they share their memories.”
The Children’s Remembrance Day Committee was formed 27 years ago. Every year a special Mass takes place for those who have died and the Books of Remembrance will be available for viewing after Mass.
If you would like further information on the Special Children’s Remembrance Day Mass, please contact Vivian Roche Fahy on 087 9684271 or Anne McKeown on 087 4418574.
