The Children’s Services at Cork University Hospital (CUH) and Mercy University Hospital (MUH) are holding a Service of Remembrance for families who have experienced the death of a child.

This multi-denominational service will take place on Wednesday, 28th January, 2015 at 6.30pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Western Road, Cork (across from the AIB). All parents/families and children are warmly invited to attend this special service, the first of its kind for the Children’s Units and other services in CUH and MUH such as the Intensive Care Units and Emergency Departments that have cared for children who have died.

One of the organisers, Daniel Nuzum, Chaplaincy Team said: “The death of a child is a devastating experience for parents and family members. This new multi-denominational Service of Remembrance provides an opportunity for the hospital community to come together with parents and families to remember their child, to offer support and to comfort one-another at what we hope will be a very gentle and reflective ceremony. During the service of readings and music there will be an opportunity for families to present a decorated keepsake and to light a candle in memory of their child, to write an inscription in the Book of Remembrance and to spend some reflective time with other families who share the same journey.”

Following the service parents are invited to join with hospital staff and other parents for light refreshments in the adjoining parish centre. There will also be entertainment and activities for the children that attend.