Every year on the second Sunday of December, since 1997, World Candle Lighting Day has been celebrated. People around the world gather to commemorate the children who have died and light a candle at 7:00 PM. Due to the different time zones, this creates a wave of light, making the world a little brighter for those who have lost a child and helping them realize they are not alone in their grief. On December 14th, the Kloosterkerk, in collaboration with the Royal Christmas Fair on the Voorhout, offers the opportunity to light a candle for the third time during a special gathering with comforting words and music.
Heartwarming initiative
Heino Walbroek, organizer of the Royal Christmas Fair, launched the idea two years ago to participate in WereldLichtjesdag (World Candle Lighting Day) in the The Hague region. A quiet church is a better place to do this than in a special tent at the Fair where the sounds of the market can be heard. He found the Kloosterkerk (Loft Church) willing to participate in this heartwarming initiative. Walbroek explains: “The Christmas market in the lead-up to Christmas has a festive feel for many, but the same period is also a time when the loss is especially palpable for people who have lost a (grand)child, brother, or sister. During this gathering, we will reflect on the enduring realization that no child is ever forgotten. It is a special and vulnerable time for parents, family members, and all those who have lost a child. That shared loss and grief forms the basis of WereldLichtjesdag. I think it’s wonderful that, in collaboration with the Kloosterkerk, this will also be given a place at the Royal Christmas Fair.”
Grieving doesn’t have to be lonely
At this comforting gathering, carefully selected music will be interspersed with appropriate lyrics. A family member will also share a personal message about loss, love, and memory. Rienk Lanooy of the Kloosterkerk explains: “I hope the music, the words, and the candles will create a sense of connection with each other and with the children we commemorate. Grieving can be a very lonely process, but knowing that others share in your sorrow can help you transcend the ordinary. In this way, we hope to offer a ray of light in the dark days leading up to Christmas.”
Musicians and collaborators
Rienk Lanooy will deliver the connecting texts (in Dutch). Geerten van de Wetering will provide the musical accompaniment. The Kloosterkerk will be open on December 14th at 6:30 PM. The meeting will begin at 6:45 PM.