The East Cheshire Hospice is preparing to host one of its most significant and touching annual events, the Light Up a Life remembrance service. This year's gathering is scheduled for Sunday, December 7, at 4 pm at the United Reformed Church in Macclesfield.
The half-hour service offers a profound opportunity for the community to come together, reflect, and honour the memory of loved ones during the festive season. It is a central moment to celebrate their lives and embrace the Christmas spirit.
A Service of Remembrance and Celebration
Marion Tugwood, the Hospice chaplain, will conduct the service, which is supported by the Macclesfield Town Council. Amy Williams, the Hospice’s Family and Friends Fundraiser, emphasised the inclusive nature of the event.
"Our Light Up a Life service is an opportunity to come together to remember and celebrate those we love this Christmas," she said. "It allows us a moment to reflect and share memories. Everyone is welcome, whether your loved one was cared for by the Hospice or not."
Adding a festive soundtrack to the proceedings will be Claritas, the Hospice's own choir. The choir is enjoying another successful year and will perform during the service. Importantly, no tickets are required for attendance.
Festive Fundraising and Lasting Tributes
Following the service, guests are invited to browse stalls selling festive items and handmade goods while enjoying a traditional mince pie and a glass of mulled wine.
The festive period is crucial for the charity's fundraising efforts. This year, a Tree of Memories will be displayed in the Hospice chapel, which has recently undergone improvements. Supporters can honour someone special by dedicating a personalised bauble in exchange for a donation.
"These personalised baubles are a way of remembering, and the donations help us to continue to care for and support patients, not just at Christmas but whenever they need it most," explained Amy Williams.
To dedicate a bauble, you can visit www.echospice.org.uk/lual or call 01625 433477.
A Year of Remarkable Support
The Hospice has had a tremendous year of fundraising, notably with its Bed Appeal, which raised enough money to purchase 16 new specialist beds. These upgraded beds will replace older models that have been in constant use.
The Claritas choir has been a cornerstone of this support. The mixed-voice community choir, which boasts around 50 members and rehearses on Mondays, has donated an incredible £71,000 to the Hospice since its formation in 2006. Its most recent contribution was a record-breaking cheque for £10,000, raised over the last year.
Claritas will also be performing a separate concert at the United Reformed Church on Saturday, December 13, at 7:30 pm. For tickets, email claritassecretary@gmail.com.
