Water and Light

The floating candles
The floating candles
The themes of the Water of new life and the Light of the World were combined in a moving service to mark Alzheimer's Awareness Week from 1 to 8 July.

The service for the Durham and Chester-le-Street branch of the Alzheimer's Society was held at the Church of St. Mary and St. Cuthbert in Chester-le-Street, presided by the Rector, The Rev. Kevin Dunne. Civic guests were the Chairman of Chester-le-Street District Council, Cllr Ralph Harrison and Mrs Harrison, and the Mayor of Durham City, Cllr Jeff Lodge and the Mayoress, Joyce McKenna.



Local member Ken Clasper talks with the Rev. Dunne after the service
Local member Ken Clasper talks with the Rev. Dunne after the service
A passage from Revelations (22:1-5) was read by Patrick Nethercot, the Branch Chairman and its theme of water was taken up by the Rector in his address. During the service, the memorial candle was lit by Cllr Harrison, and members of the congregation came forward to remember their loved ones by lighting their own candles and float them in the glass bowls provided, which provided a shimmering mixture of light and water.

After the service, everybody was invited back to the branch office to enjoy a superb buffet lunch.

Carers and former carers found the whole occasion extremely moving and some deep emotions were stirred, but of course support was on hand.



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