CHRISTMAS can be one of the toughest times of the year - family, food and gifts all have to be organised.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
However, the death of a loved one can make Christmas even tougher.
Hornibrook and Samuelson held its 20th annual ecumenical service at the Wagga Crematorium Chapel earlier this week.
"It's for those who are finding it difficult through the loss of a loved one," manager Darren Verus said.
Mr Verus said the death of a mum, dad or child could still be keenly felt during Christmas and the service helped provide comfort.
"It's taking that loved one through the Christmas season, showing them they're not forgotten," he said.
Mr Verus said for some the service was a way for people to still enjoy the season despite no longer being able to have family with them.
Even after many years the Christmas service has become a new tradition - with one local attending each service for the past 13 years.
Alan Harris McDonald and Co manager Aidan Vivian said for the families who had suffered a loss, it was part of the healing process.
Up to 160 people gathered at St John's Anglican Church yesterday for a Christmas service.
For many of the attendees it was the first Christmas since that loss.
"It helps the family share a special moment ... coming together to share a special time," he said.
Mr Vivian said it was a service offered because grieving didn't stop at the end of a funeral.
"Christmas can be a difficult time for many people and this just gives people an opportunity to prepare for that and have peace," Father Michael Armstrong said.
Fr Armstrong said the service followed the advent wreath - focusing on hope, peace, love and joy.