Libraries  |  5 Dec 2023

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Christchurch resident Sarah Robb understands that the holiday season may be a challenging time for those who have lost their loved ones.

When Sarah was twenty, her father died in a sudden accident. Six years later, her mother passed away from a brain aneurysm.

Christmas became a difficult time for Sarah, as it was a period of grieving for her parents and wishing she was able to connect with them.

The thirty-one-year-old now works in her own business, Spring with Sarah, as a certified coach, NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Master Practitioner, speaker and author to help others on their journey to break through beliefs and patterns that keep them stuck.

Over the month of December, Sarah is bringing her education to Christchurch City Council facilities to help others going through similar experiences of grief.  

“I started Christmas Connections to help people connect with their passed loved ones around the holiday season, as I knew others would be struggling over the Christmas period too,” says Sarah.

“The series is a compassionate initiative that aims to offer comfort to those who find the holiday season challenging.

“Throughout December, we invite individuals to create personal messages to their loved ones who have died, and write these on wooden Christmas decorations.

“These messages are displayed throughout the month, creating a beautiful and poignant memorial.”

On the days leading into Christmas, these heartfelt messages are ceremoniously burned, allowing them to be spiritually sent to loved ones who have passed away.

Sarah says the initiative is a touching way to provide support and connection during a time of remembrance and reflection.

“This year we’re super excited to have the Christchurch City Council getting involved and backing this initiative which will take place across the city.

“I look forward to helping you connect with your loved ones this Christmas.”

The series will be taking place at six Christchurch City Libraries over the month of December: Fendalton Library, Te Hāpua: Halswell Centre, Tūranga, Papanui Library, Lyttelton Library and Shirley Library.

Christmas Connections will also be run online for those unable to attend an in-person event. Submit your message online here.