Ode to Durham Crematorium

A resting place for so many, who have passed on,
Amid the green pastures, where trees and flowers abound.
Fifty years have come and gone for many to remember,
The Crematorium almost in the shadow of the Cathedral,
A mighty backdrop to behold, but no less imposing in it’s own right,
Uniquely octagonal, embracing all faiths within it’s walls,
Windows tall and all embracing too, a vista unequalled,
For many a Heaven on earth, an oasis of peace.
Fifty years, a place to remember, sadness, joy, hope
Remembering loved ones, friends, at peace, at rest,
Memories of all that was good, and thankful for life.
The Book of Remembrance, the Garden of Remembrance,
The tranquillity of the Chapel, the sweet notes of the organ,
A homily delivered, a hymn sung, a prayer said,
A silent thought, a silent tear.
Fifty years, so short a time in comparison to eternity,
An eternity with God, an eternity that awaits.

By Geoffrey Gregg

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