Pause for Thought

Sue Hawkett

Each year on the fourth Saturday of November, a day of memory for the victims of the Holodomor is held. This was a period in the early 1930s when Stalin’s regime orchestrated a deliberate mass starvation of Ukrainians. Those who resisted were eliminated or deported. Traditionally on this day Ukrainians attend memorial services using symbolic vessels of grain and light candles in memory of the victims. Fast-forward to 2022 and again we see a regime which wishes to eliminate Ukraine by force and starve them of electricity, heating and water.

In the UK there are now 146,200 Ukrainian refugees (Nov 22) and in Dorset around 685, with 260 children in 93 schools (Oct 22). Some of these families have arrived in our local community, often with just one suitcase and backpack containing all their hastily gathered possessions.

The sense of loss and separation has been clearly visible across the news channels and social media. Loss is an emotion to which we can all relate. If the last time you saw your loved one was waving goodbye from a train moving out of Ukraine or as they were lifted into the back of the ambulance, the shock only amplifies the separation. We are designed and loved by God and meant to live in community, in families, with neighbours, to have companionship and the security of warmth and love. We have all learnt from our recent experience through Covid the importance of our dependence and interdependence on one another. This crosses all borders.

We have also learnt the importance of remembering those whom we have loved, are separated from or have lost. The need for people to come together to acknowledge their loss, grief and sadness and to remember in a quiet, safe place has been comforting for many. So that is why we are pleased to be holding our annual Snowdrop Service on 3rd February. What is this service and why do we feel it is important, significant, inclusive and comforting?

The service provides an opportunity for people to remember, give thanks and say goodbye, irrespective of what or when their loss was or their beliefs. The service includes readings, music and the opportunity to light a candle.

This initiative, hosted by Sherborne Churches Together, and supported by Yeatman Hospital, Marie Curie, Weldmar Hospice and Cruse Bereavement Care is open to those of all faiths or none. These organisations will take part in the service and be available for a chat over refreshments afterwards. In times of grief, sadness and loneliness, it is my belief that our God is the source of love and comfort we need.

__________________________________________________________________ Friday 3rd February Sherborne Snowdrop Service Sherborne Sacred Heart & St Aldhelm RC Church, Westbury For further details see local social media and posters or contact sherbornesnowdrop@gmail.com