Charlie McGettigan will speak at Galway Rememberance Mass

SINGER-songwriter Charlie McGettigan is the guest speaker at this year's Mass of Rememberance for children in Galway.[private] The Children's Remembrance Day Committee at University Hospital Galway is inviting parents and their families who have experienced the death of a child before birth, shortly after birth, or at a later stage, to remember their loved ones in a special Mass of Remembrance, which will take place on May 29. During the Mass, a Book of Remembrance, with the names of those who have died, will be presented to the Altar. The readings and reflections for the Mass are chosen specially with the congregation in mind. Chairperson of the committee Margaret Duignan says, 'There is a need for a special day for parents and families to share their grief. I would encourage anybody that would like their loved one to be included in this special Mass to contact us. Support lets the bereaved person know that there are people there that they can call on.' The Children's Remembrance Day Committee was formed 15 years ago. Every year a special mass takes place for those who have died and the Book of Remembrance is displayed in the Chapel of Remembrance in UHG. Committee member Susan Massey says, 'Any death, especially that of a child, upsets a family. Parents are robbed of the joys and expectations that go with parenthood, and siblings also feel cheated of the chance to get to know their little brother or sister. 'This Mass of Remembrance offers family members the opportunity to come together and share their grief in an understanding and empathetic environment. This year the Children's Remembrance Day Committee is delighted to have Charlie McGettigan, singer-songwriter, as their guest speaker.' For further information on the Special Children's Remembrance Day Mass, contact Margaret Duignan on 091-523206 or Susan Massey on 091-635302.[/private]