Children's Moment in Memorial Service

Patrick's memorial service Saturday was a wonderful affirming celebration of his life and faith, attended by a very large gathering of friends and family.

I'd like to share with my Gentle Readers the special Children's Moment that was included in the service. My RevGal/Pal friends may want to make a note of this for future reference.

Annie and her cousins and young friends of the family were called forward to the front of the sanctuary to join Father Bob, the Episcopal priest at the church school she attends.

He lit a candle and explained to the children that the flame represented Patrick's life. Then he blew out the candle and pointed out the smoke that wafted overhead from it, saying that represented his spirit that lived on. After distributing candles to each of the children, he lit his candle once again saying that Patrick's spirit now shone before his Lord in heaven. 

Father Bob then lit the candle of each child gathered in front of him and told them the burning candles represented their lives. Then he led them in a procession down the center aisle as they all sang "This Little Light of Mine/I'm gonna let it shine." After they sang the song, he dismissed them to go back and sit with their families.

Truly this was the most meaningful way I have ever seen of including young children in a memorial service.

Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in their heavenly Father's realm. Rev. 21: 4