On Thursday 31st October people gathered for the All Souls service at St Paul’s, the first for many years.

The hand-picked choir performed 5 pieces selected for the occasion, including some very challenging works, that provided an uplifting backdrop for reflection on the lives that have touched ours.

Father Hugh, our Chaplain, had selected appropriate readings that took us on a journey; starting with the Lord’s Prayer to remind us of the new relationship Christ allows us to enjoy with God, and that death is simply a horizon that our limited vision cannot see beyond.

Those present were invited to light a candle at any plint during the service and to stay after for as long as they needed.

Solemn and comforting in equal measure, it is hoped that this will become a regular part of the church calendar.

Our thanks go to Errol Girdlestone and the choir, and to the anonymous sponsor of the music.

Prayer Attributed to Bede Jarret OP 1881 – 1934

“We seem to give them back to Thee, O God, who gavest them first to us. Yet as Thou didst not lose them in giving, so do we not lose them by their return. Not as the world giveth, givest Thou, O Lover of souls. What Thou givest, Thou takest not away, for what is Thine is ours also if we are Thine. And life is eternal and love is immortal, and death is only a horizon, and a horizon is nothing, save the limit of our sight. Lift us up, strong Son of God, that we may see further; cleanse our eyes that we may see more clearly; draw us closer to Thyself that we may know ourselves to be nearer to our loved ones who are with Thee. And while Thou dost prepare a place for us, prepare us also for that happy place, that where Thou are we may be also for evermore.”