To coincide with the period surrounding All Souls Day, ministry at St Peter’s Anglican Church, East Maitland, will hold three services for those who have died and/or those battling a mental illness.

“Mental health is something that impacts the lives of so many people within our society, but is still overlooked a great deal,” Service of Hope organiser deacon Will Johnston said.

“Yet, there are so many suffering in silence and not being given the place to heal. A lot of people in our society, and not just those suffering from a mental illness, have a tough time finding hope in the heavy times.

“The Church wants to welcome all people of all different walks of life to spend this short time with us to find support, to spend time in reflection, to remember those we love and to find hope in the darkness.”

The services will begin on Sunday night with a Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance for those who have died.

On Monday, a Requiem Eucharist will be held to pray for those who have died with the Service of Hope taking place on Tuesday night.

“Since the start of the Christian church, almost 2000 years ago, churches have provided opportunities for people to remember and give thanks for those who have died,” church priest Father David Battrick said.

“And, traditionally, the period around All Souls Day has been set apart as a special time to pray for loved ones who have died.”

As part of the service, participants will have the opportunity to light a candle.

“We do not shy away from death. The Church stands as a symbol of hope in the midst of the reality that we will all one day die, but that our lives have a purpose and a significance that lasts forever,” Father Battrick said.

n The Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance will be held at St Peter’s Anglican Church on Sunday at 6pm, the Requiem Eucharist will be held on Monday, at 6pm, while the Service of Hope will be held at 6.30pm on Tuesday.