Pause for Thought

We are delighted to be holding our Snowdrop Service on 4th February. What is this service and why do we feel it is important, significant, inclusive and comforting? Most of us may be vaccinated but Covid 19 has far from disappeared – the latest variant a cause for concern. We have to adapt to an emerging ‘new normal’, being mindful of its silent presence. We must be responsible, vigilant and aware of others who may be vulnerable.

We are designed and meant to live in a community, in families, with neighbours; to have the companionship, warmth, love and fun of those we live with, learn from and work with. We have learnt, with greater emphasis, our dependence and interdependence on one another. We are a resilient, caring and adaptable people. Charities have adapted their work or come into existence, like our own Community Kitchen. Our health services continue to work flat-out in ensuring that we receive vaccinations and appointments and treatments where possible.

During lockdown our churches were forced to close, which was extremely sad, but they quickly found ways to reach out. The number of people viewing church services on YouTube rose dramatically, bringing God into homes in a very direct and personal way.

Although we may feel more confident with the measures put in place, so affording our greater freedom, the enforced separation over the last two years has taken its toll and had an impact on the lives of many. This has been most keenly felt by those who are ill, elderly, live alone or in a care home or had a loved one who has died. It is those who are grieving that I want to talk about. Because of the restrictions, access and time with loved ones has either been prohibited or restricted in hospital, hospice or care home. That important human touch has not been allowed and wearing PPE has inhibited the closeness in saying goodbye and, in some cases, prevented being physically present at the time of death. If the last time you saw your loved one was waving goodbye as they were being lifted into the back of the ambulance, that only serves to amplify the shock of being separated. We must not forget the impact that this has had on people and on NHS workers.

Although funerals can now take place it was only recently that the severe restrictions to them was lifted. The necessary and natural emotion of grief and sadness has not been able to be expressed. It has been ‘bottled up’ and so the process has been interrupted. The need for people to come together to acknowledge their grief and sadness and to remember in a quiet, safe place has been comforting for many.

At this time of year we hold the Snowdrop Service for those who have been bereaved. An initiative, hosted by Sherborne Churches Together and supported by the Yeatman Hospital, Marie Curie, Weldmar Hospice and Cruse is open to those of all faiths or none. In times of grief and loneliness, for many it is our God who is the source and comfort we need.

__________________________________________________________________________ Friday 4th February 11am Sherborne Snowdrop Service Sherborne Abbey. For further details see local social media and posters or contact sherbornesnowdrop@gmail.com