A Maldon church is set to be transformed into a healing space with a memorial service, art therapy and music next weekend to commemorate those who have died during the Covid pandemic, and to support residents through their grief and loss.

Maldon United Reformed Church, at the top of Market Hill, has organised the event next Saturday (12 March) in two parts - the memorial service will take place in the morning, from 10.30am, while residents will be able to drop in from 2pm to 4pm for support.

Art therapy, music, refreshments and a listening ear will be on hand, and everyone is invited to attend both parts of the day.

Reverend Anne Sardeson, minister at Maldon United Reformed Church, said: "After a very difficult two years, in which many of us have experienced some significant losses, it feels important to create a space where people can remember and lay down at least some of what we have been through.

"This day will be a chance to do that by offering space to talk, pray, be creative, be silent and meet up with others who will have been through similar things."

During the morning church service, residents will be able to name and remember those who died during the lockdowns, when it was not possible to have normal funerals.

Several members of the church's congregation will be remembered specifically, and there will be an opportunity for anyone to commemorate those they have lost personally.

Art therapy during the afternoon will offer residents the chance to make a fabric flower, create a bracelet or paint a stone to create a small, personal memorial to help with loss.

There will be music, relaxation and a visual meditation on Psalm 23 alongside a free lunch, plus hot drinks and cakes.

There is no need to book.

To contact the church, email [email protected].

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