Mass brings comfort to families
A lorry became an altar at a very special event at Paisley’s Hawkhead Cemetery.
The occasion was the twice-yearly mass that is held for to pray for those Roman Catholics who have died.
It is an event that is strong on community spirit and fellowship and attracts large numbers of people.
Participant Margaret Gellatly explained: “Many family groups came along on the day to pray for their loved ones who are buried in the cemetery, and those who perhaps have no one left to pray for them.
“The mass can bring great comfort to families and having mass said so close to where their loved ones are buried, whether it is days or years after their burial.”
The mass was last held in November when there was heavy rain, but it held off this time round.
“The weather was much kinder this time and a large crowd assembled with many others in cars, due either to age or infirmity,” Mrs Gellatly said.
“Holy Communion was taken to those in cars. The singing was led by Paula Barron.”
The mass was concelebrated by Canon Oliver Freney and Rev Louis Mendy, who both serve in St Mirin’s Cathedral, and Rev Stephen Baillie, of St Charles’ Church.
Thanks were extended to Renfrewshire Council for permission to hold the mass in the grounds of Hawkhead Cemetery.
“Also, many thanks to Malcolm Logistics for the use of their trailer to put the altar on,” Mrs Gellatly said.
“And, many thanks to all the workers who on the day provide marshalling and other duties as necessary.”
To find out more about cemetery masses and the dates of those coming up, visit www.rcdop.co.uk