Bowra and O'Dea's annual Christmas Remembrance Service was held at their Mandurah chapel on the evening of Wednesday, December 9.
More than 100 family members gathered to acknowledge the loss of a loved one in 2020, made all the more poignant as many had to adjust their funeral plans due to restrictions during the pandemic.
There were others represented that were marking the passing of a family member from previous years, in what is becoming a Christmas ritual of remembrance for them," Bowra and O'Dea branch manager Garry Russell said.
Well known celebrant Kevin Clune led the service and acknowledged that for many there would be an empty seat at the Christmas table this year, and, in this strangest of years, there will be many others that are in isolation around the world that cannot be home for Christmas, nor could they be at the service or indeed the funeral itself.
Over a dozen families watched the live stream on the night, from many places in Australia, and around the world.
The welcome to country was led by Karen Jacobs, whose traditional lands are Whadjuk Country.
She has lived in Mandurah for over 40 years and represented the local indigenous community.
Her welcome included a talk of about the significance of the Modjar Tree, often known as the Western Australian Christmas Tree, in traditional teachings about the passing of loved ones and the closeness of ancestry.
Mayor Rhys Williams invited all the families represented on the night to come forward and light a candle for their loved one.
"All those present were grateful for his generosity in making the time to be with those in the community that are feeling their grief during what, for most, is a festive season," Mr Russell said.
Once again this year the live music was by the Lakeside Singers and their rendition of well known and contemporary carols, before and during the service, set a beautiful atmosphere and a lead for those gathered to join in the singing.
A message and blessing from Captain Scott Ellery from the Salvation Army rounded out the service and then those participating had the opportunity to talk to others who understood what they were feeling over refreshments, including, of course, Christmas cake.
