The 40th Annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving took place on Saturday 27th September 2025 in The Church of the Holy Child in Dublin.
We had 1500 people join us for our 40th Annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving to honour those who have given the gift of life through organ donation. It was a heartfelt celebration of the lives transplant recipients now live in honour and deep appreciation of organ donors and their families.
The Service, recorded by Kairos Communications, will be broadcast on RTÉ One TV, RTÉ Radio 1 Extra and RTÉ Player on Sunday, 2nd November at 11am.
40th Annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving
On Saturday, 27th September, the Irish Kidney Association hosted its 40th Annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving, drawing a congregation of approximately 1,500 people from across Ireland and overseas to the Church of the Holy Child, Whitehall, Dublin.
The unique and poignant event honoured deceased organ donors and their families, while celebrating the renewed lives of transplant recipients. Now in its 40th year, the Service has become a deeply meaningful annual gathering for donor families and organ transplant recipients, many of whom attend every year to reflect, remember, and give thanks. This inclusive ceremony brought together celebrants from various faith traditions and non-religious worldviews, each united in their support for organ donation as the ultimate act of humanity.
A Message from President Michael D. Higgins
President Michael D. Higgins wrote a letter of support which was read aloud at this year's Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving. His letter pays tribute to the extraordinary impact of organ donation, celebrating the renewed hope and possibilities it has brought to recipients and their families.
40th Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving Booklet
Read the booklet from this year's Ruby Anniversary Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving. This beautifully crafted publication captures the essence of the service, featuring the readings, hymns and prayers that were heard on the day.