Three simple ways to remember a loved one
Candles in Tours cathedral
During this period of remembrance, Maggie Mairura from our Remembrance team shares three simple ways to remember a loved one this November.
1. Light a candle in memory of a loved one
I have always loved lighting candles and since I took up this role, over two years ago now, I have lit many! Visiting places, on holiday or with work, I like to find a church so I can light a candle. I find there is something comforting in watching the flame flicker gently in a votive stand, whether in a small chapel or a huge cathedral. A feeling of permanence knowing that the candle will remain burning for a few hours or a few days.
This summer I visited Douai Abbey in Berkshire. I lived there many years ago in a lay community and, when my children were young, we would visit every summer. I now go with my granddaughter, Leila.
2. Come together in prayer
When I was young girl growing up in Liverpool, on the feast of All Souls we would put a biscuit and a cup of milk out for my sister Maureen who had died aged six. I don’t have any memory of her, only through photos, as I was two when she died. Knowing that we are united as Catholics around the world in this special month brings great comfort, as we unite to hold our loved ones and each other in prayer.
On the feast of All Souls we gathered for a time of prayer and reflection to remember all those who have died.
You can also find CAFOD’s prayers of remembrance for those who have died, for comfort for the grieving and for the continued hope of our joyful, heavenly reunion.
3. Share memories of a loved one
Lastly, sharing memories can be a beautiful way to remember a loved one.
While we can experience mixed emotions of sadness and joy, tears and laughter, I cherish the moments spent with my family reminiscing about the laughter and adventures we shared with my daughter, Anna, who died six years ago.
Last month it would have been her 37th birthday, so this year for her birthday lunch we had a lovely charcuterie board of continental meats and cheeses – her favourite! And then we played a Harry Potter quiz, which she definitely would have won.
Would you like to give in memory of a loved one?
These are just some ways we can remember our loved ones this month.
Did you know that you can choose to leave a donation in memory of a loved one in your Will? It is very simple to do: please get in touch with my colleague Lily Bliss, and she can give you the suggested wording.
You can contact Lily on 020 7095 5367 or at legacy@cafod.org.uk. If you would like to write or update your Will for free, we have a free Will offer which Lily would be delighted to tell you more about too.