Rotherham All Souls service to remember lost loved ones

The feast of All Souls, which falls today, is a day for people to pray for all those who have died and an opportunity to think about family and friends who have recently passed away.

St Bede’s Catholic Church on Station Road, Rotherham, is holding a requiem mass at 7.30pm to which all are welcome to pray for loved ones who have died as well as those who have no one to pray for them.

Organist Paul Brennan said: This can be an opportunity to provide some comfort for those who have suffered a recent bereavement and may still be struggling to come to terms with their loss.

“So many people come to a church for a funeral and may find a source of comfort, but may not feel there is any other occasion to take advantage of the chance to just come and take some time to reflect or just sit or light a candle in memory of a loved one.

“Everyone knows about Hallowe’en, but many will be unfamiliar with the complete period of Hallowtide.

“This comprises of All Hallows Eve or Hallowe’en, followed by All Saints Day on November 1, this being a day to remember and celebrate all the Saints and then All Souls on November 2, which is a day for all departed ones and those who have died more recently.

“People are welcome to light a candle in the church and for those who have loved ones buried in the graveyards, they are most welcome to light candles and place them on the graves.”