American Cathedral in Paris to host baby loss remembrance service

The American Cathedral in Paris will host an international remembrance service for parents and families affected by the loss of a baby on Saturday, December 6.

It is part of the ‘Saying Goodbye’ series organised by UK-based charity Mariposa International.

It was originally founded in Devon in 2012 as ‘Saying Goodbye’ by grief expert Zoe Clark-Coates MBE and her husband Andy, following the devastating loss of their five children, before changing names in 2013.

The service will begin at 14.30, with attendees arriving at 14.00 and will include readings, music, and acts of remembrance, followed by a post-service reception or quiet moments for reflection.

Baby loss affects over 30 million families worldwide each year, with an estimated 258,000 losses in the UK alone. 

Many of these families have no funeral or memorial to mark their loss and little access to support. Since its launch, the ‘Saying Goodbye’ service has grown to over 250 events in seven countries.

The services are open to people of all faiths or none, and are free to attend. Each event includes music, readings, poems, and acts of remembrance. 

“Our services provide a beautiful opportunity for mothers, fathers, siblings and extended family to say goodbye to their babies and show they are truly loved. Our job at the Mariposa Trust is to ensure every child is recognised, however fleeting their existence,” said Zoe.

One parent who attended a previous service described it as “a real strength” to be with others who understood the grief and trauma.

“For the first time, I felt my tears of grief, loss and love were allowed, shared and understood.”

Mariposa International also provides weekly support to over 50,000 people worldwide and is actively involved in campaigning for better care, with Ms Clark-Coates co-chairing and co-authoring the UK government’s Pregnancy Loss Review.

It recommended 73 changes to care and support across the NHS, which are now in the process of being implemented, with key recommendations such as the new ‘Certificates of Loss’ already coming into effect. 

The December 6 service will take place at 23 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris, the location of the American Cathedral. 

While free to attend, seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You are recommended to reserve a seat using the online form. 

More information can be found at www.sayinggoodbye.org and on the charity’s social media pages.