Embrace FARM will host its annual remembrance service for bereaved farm families on Sunday (June 29).

The service at the Church of the Most Holy Rosary in Abbeyleix Co. Laois will bring together farm families from across Ireland to remember loved ones lost within their community.

Now in its 13th year, the service has become a cornerstone event for Embrace FARM, supporting families impacted by serious injury and sudden death, while honouring the lives and legacies of those lost.

As 2026 has been designated the International Year of the Woman Farmer, this years’ service will also recognise the vital and often unseen role of women within farming families and rural communities - particularly in the context of care, loss and resilience.

64% of those engaging with Embrace FARM’s supports are female. In addition, 110 women are currently part of the organisation’s dedicated widows' support group.

Remembrance service

Catherine Kenneally from Embrace FARM said that the remembrance service "creates a space where families can come together in understanding and support".

"This year, we are particularly conscious of the role of women in farming families - as carers, supporters and often the steady force guiding families forward in the most difficult of times.

"Their strength and resilience are central to the farming community," she said.

A central element of the service is the 'Remembrance Roll Call', where the names of loved ones are read aloud.

Last year, 377 names were called out during the service, reflecting the far-reaching impact of loss within the farming community.

Embrace FARM is inviting families across the country to submit names for inclusion, continuing a tradition that has brought comfort to hundreds each year.

The service will take place at 2:00p.m on Sunday and will be live streamed on the Embrace FARM Facebook page enabling families nationwide to take part.

Embrace FARM

Embrace FARM was established by husband and wife, Brian and Norma Rohan in 2014, following the tragic loss of Brian’s father Liam in a farming accident.

The not-for-profit organisation is the first of its kind to support the farming community and families of Ireland who, like them, have experienced the impact of serious injury and sudden death.

From the first annual remembrance service in 2014, the network has expanded nationwide and evolved its services to meet the needs of Irish farm families in the aftermath of a sudden incident.

The organisation has supported more than 700 farm families, offering connection, understanding and support during times of profound loss.