The Williams Lake Hospice Society (WLHS) is hosting its 28th annual Memory Tree celebration, a service of remembrance and healing, honouring loved ones who have passed away.
“It’s such a need for the community,” said the WLHS program coordinator, Sheri Marsh.
The celebration takes place at city council chambers on Sunday, Dec. 3, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
The gathering is an opportunity for people to slow down and remember loved ones who have passed away and find comfort and support amongst family and friends, said executive director Daphne Johnson.
The celebration will include an opening ceremony with music and entertainment, an opening prayer, lighting a candle, reading the names of those who have passed from the memory tree book, a blessing and a moment of silent reflection.
Following this, community members will gather outside to turn on the lights on the hospice tree outside of city hall, closing with a song. There will be snacks and refreshments for people to enjoy in the lobby.
As well, a tree will be on display inside of city hall between Dec. 3 and Jan. 1, filled with ornaments containing the names of loved ones who have passed.
For those wanting to add an ornament with their loved one’s name who has passed, you can do so with volunteers at Save-On-Foods on Nov. 24, 25 and 26 from noon until 6 p.m., where their booth is set up. Their name will also be added to the memory tree book, which will be read at the event.
You can also add a loved one’s name to the memory tree book by placing their name on a slip of paper and into the wooden boxes set up throughout the community. Their name will also be added as an ornament on the tree. Boxes are located at city hall, Williams Lake and District Credit Union, BOB’s Footwear and Apparel, Margetts Meat Market, Mulberry Lane, Williams Lake Veterinary Hospital, The Inspired Builders, Mint and Lime Catering Co., The Heeler and Comer Station Store. The deadline to have your loved one’s name added is Nov. 30. You can also add a loved one’s name by attending the event. The memory tree event is one of the biggest fundraisers for the society, said Johnson, noting donations are appreciated but not mandatory. All proceeds stay within the community at the society.
The hospice society would also like to inform people about their new location at the Yorston Medical Clinic at 143 Fourth Avenue South. Their mailing address continues to be the same and is PO Box 4214, Williams Lake, B.C. V2G 2V3.
Marsh reminds the community that the hospice society is here for them.