Christmas memorial 2025
Each year, as Christmas draws near, you’re invited to join us for the Acts of Dove Christmas Memorial Service. This event was created for you to pause, remember and honour those you love.
We know that the festive season can be a difficult time when someone is missing. This memorial gives you a gentle moment to reflect, surrounded by others who understand that same ache.
You’ll hear music, poetry and witness the release of white doves, each one representing love, hope and remembrance. It’s a time to celebrate memories, share emotion and find a sense of peace together.
What started as a small gathering in a park has grown into an annual tradition that now brings together hundreds of families from across Lanarkshire and beyond. Every dove released, every name spoken, every tear and smile shared reminds us all that love never leaves. It simply takes a new form.
This years memorial will again take place at the beautiful Crossbasket Castle at 11am on the 21st of December 2025.
This year’s memorial is held in partnership with Anderson Maguire Funeral Directors, with support from our valued sponsors.
Their involvement has made it possible to keep the Acts of Dove Christmas Memorial Service completely free to attend.
We’re so grateful for their continued support, helping us ensure that every family who wishes to come together in remembrance can do so without cost or worry.
Together, we keep the memorial free for all
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Tickets for the Acts of Dove Christmas Memorial Service are completely free, but spaces are limited due to the capacity of the hall. We’ve extended numbers as much as possible this year so that more families can attend, but once tickets are gone, they’re gone.
Please only reserve a ticket if you’re certain you can come along. Each ticket represents a cost to the organisers and a seat that someone else may deeply wish to have. If something changes and you can no longer attend, please let us know so we can offer your place to another family.
This event means so much to so many people, and your understanding helps us keep it accessible and meaningful for everyone.
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You can expect a mix of readings, music, a personalised dove release and time to reflect.
We have a wonderful piper and singer joining us again this year, helping to make the service even more meaningful. The memorial lasts around one hour, followed by light refreshments for anyone who would like to stay and chat afterwards.
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This year, we’re once again proud to support Richmond’s Hope as our chosen charity partner. Their work provides vital support to children and young people who are grieving, helping them to understand their feelings and find ways to cope with their loss.
There is no obligation to donate to this cause, but charity buckets will be available on the day should you wish to do so. The Acts of Dove Christmas Memorial Service makes no profit each year — this is simply my way of giving back and helping to support this year’s chosen charity partner.
By attending, you’re also helping raise awareness for the incredible work Richmond’s Hope do across our communities. Together, we can help ensure that no child has to face grief alone.
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Tickets for the Acts of Dove Christmas Memorial Service are available through our Eventbrite page.
Booking is simple — just click the link below and follow the steps to reserve your free tickets. You’ll receive an email confirmation once your booking is complete.
Please remember that tickets are free but limited due to the size of the hall. We kindly ask that you only book if you’re sure you can attend, so that every available space can be used by those who wish to come along.
If your plans change, please cancel your ticket through Eventbrite or let us know so we can offer your place to another family.
All images provided by Rosaleen Bonnar Photography