Do you know that each year in the benefice we have a service where people gather to remember loved ones who have died?

It’s a service that is open to everyone. We send named invitations to those who have organised funerals in the past year through our churches (whether the service took place in church or at the crematorium) but it’s not just for them. Anyone who wants to remember someone they love but who is no longer here is most welcome to attend.

During the service – a mix of hymns, readings, music and prayers – there is an opportunity for everyone to light a candle in memory of the person they are holding in their heart. We read a list of all those we are remembering, and in the midst of the sadness that they are no longer with us, we give thanks that we knew them and for the part they played in our lives.

This year the service is in St Andrew’s Church, Milborne, at 3 p.m. on Saturday 2nd November. It is followed by tea and cake. Please do join us – let me know of people you’d like added to the list. And if possible, let me know in advance that you will be attending – we don’t want to run out of cake! And if you’d like to come, but transport is a problem, then do contact one of our churchwardens.

We also remember each year in November those who have died in war. Dewlish and Milborne will have specific Remembrance services. In Dewlish, we ask you to gather at the War Memorial at 10.50 for the Act of Remembrance, which is followed by a service in the church; at Milborne the service in church will be at 10 a.m. followed by an Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial.

The Royal British Legion in Puddletown are not holding their service this year. However, there will be an Act of Remembrance during the Puddletown Praise service that morning (11 a.m.).

            Remembering is not just for a particular month in the year, but it can be helpful to have specific times when communities come together to recall significant people and events. They have a meaning in the past, but also affect our present and future. That is one reason why Christians gather Sunday by Sunday to share holy communion with one another, as we remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and celebrate what it means for us today. It’s an act of the heart as much as of body and mind. And it’s there for all who want to be a part of it.

            With best wishes

Sarah