Lives celebrated in 2017

At the end of each year, I have a little sort out of the printed scripts and service sheets that I have accumulated during the past 12 months. I have a digital copy of every script on my computer, so I re-cycle the paper version but keep the order of services. I always find it really moving to see the faces and recall the names of those whose lives I've helped to celebrate. I remember the family visits, the music played, the tributes paid... and I think, what an honour to have played a meaningful part in all these farewells.

Here's a picture of all the service sheets from 2017, during which time I led more than 150 ceremonies. That's a lot of families who will be experiencing their first Christmas without that special someone. I'll be thinking of them, and hope they can take comfort from all they shared together and the many happy memories they left behind.