A local memorial park is tapping into the Christmas spirit this year to help mourners find moments of joy in honouring their lost loved ones.
Individuals can send heartfelt letters to their loved ones and attend a memorial service at Forest Lawn Memorial Park at Leppington, which says it’s offering a unique and reflective 2024 Christmas experience.
The letters can be popped into a mailbox situated in Candy Cane Lane, which is part of the park’s month-long Christmas activation.
The walk-through area is adorned with seasonal decorations and even has a Santa’s sleigh.
There’s also a giant Christmas tree within the park, while the Forest Lawn office building lights up at night with a 16-metre LED wall featuring dynamic Christmas imagery and messages.
The activation builds on the park’s annual Christmas of Remembrance Memorial Service, providing a greater opportunity for the community to come together to remember and reflect on those who hold a special place in their hearts.
Forest Lawn Memorial Park’s Josephine Faatoafe (pictured at right) said the initiative was all about facilitating a meaningful experience of remembrance and connection during the holiday season, which can be a tough period.
“For a lot of our family and friends Christmas is a difficult time when they are missing their loved ones,” she said.
“Our activation and Christmas memorial service allows people in our community to come together, share some lovely memories of their loved ones as well as gaining some support from others experiencing the same type of loss.
“It’s all about bringing people together to honour lives and celebrate memories during the festive season.”
Forest Lawn’s Christmas of Remembrance Memorial Service will be held next Wednesday, December 11 at 6pm in the park’s North Chapel. The service includes a charity barbecue and the opportunity to have a complimentary photo with Santa.
The Christmas activation will be open to the public each day and evening until January 8, allowing members of the community to visit for Orthodox Christmas.
To send a letter to a loved one (or for younger visitors, their wishes to Santa), individuals can download a template from the Forest Lawn website or pen their own and drop it off at the park any time during the activation. Afterwards, the letters will be cremated and placed in a memorial garden within the park.
Those wishing to attend the memorial service are required to register by sending an email and photo of their loved one for the Christmas tribute to michelle.lynch@invocare.com.au
