FFMA Chief Executive attends Service of Dedication
A service of dedication of The Vale Crematorium took place on Tuesday 10th September and was well attended by local Funeral Directors, Clergy, Funeral Celebrants, senior representatives of Professional organisations from the Bereavement sector together with The Chairman of Wychavon District Council Cll’r Frances Smith, Cll’r Mark Goodge, Mayor of Evesham, Cll’r Chris Parsons and Mrs Jan Parsons, Town Mayor and Mayoress of Pershore. The Crematorium Manager, Marian Webb welcomed the congregation and thanked everyone for attending.
The service of dedication was led by The Right Reverend Robert Paterson, Honorary Assistant Bishop of Worcester, who spoke about the gifts of Grace, Mercy and Peace and the importance of the Crematorium Chapel being a sacred place where those who’s Hearts are broken with Grief can find healing. The Bishop blessed the Chapel and spoke of it as a place where services for those of all faiths and those with no beliefs could be held in accordance to the wishes of each family. The Bishop referred to a Poem read by Pip Challenge, “Do it Anyway” a version found on the wall in Mother Teresa’s home for children in Calcutta which resonates with so many people.
The Vale Crematorium opened on 11th December last year and has already established a reputation for offering the highest standards of service to Bereaved families. Set in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside, The Vale Crematorium is situated bordering the communities of Pershore and Evesham has been especially designed in the local rural character so it blends into the countryside, offering a place of peace and seclusion, so important for a funeral, providing a natural place for families to hold the dignified service of their choice not only from Evesham and Pershore but towns and villages across the local area.
James Willis, the CEO of the Westerleigh Group who own and operate 34 Crematoria across the UK spoke of his pride in the Company that offers at the Vale Crematorium, first-class facilities; beautiful and tranquil grounds; and a highly personalised service that can cater for all in the community. He thanked all those involved in the planning and development over the past four years that has brought us to the Dedication Service and made special mention of the dedicated staff at the Crematorium.
After the Ceremony the congregation gathered for refreshments in a marquee in the grounds, and many took the opportunity to have a guided tour looking behind the scenes.