It is time once again for the Sunshine Coast Hospice Society's Lights of Life program. This year will be the 15th annual event. The familiar Christmas trees can be seen at the Sunnycrest Mall in Gibsons and at the Trail Bay Mall in Sechelt.
Opening day in Gibsons is Monday, Nov. 28. The program runs daily (except Sunday) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Dec. 12.
Lights of Life in Sechelt gets underway at the Trail Bay Mall on Tuesday, Dec. 6. Daily hours will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (except Sundays) until Dec. 17.
This event provides people of all ages and cultures an opportunity to remember the life of a loved one, family member, special person or even a beloved pet. A personal card can be placed on one of the Christmas trees and a white light will replace a blue light as a symbol of your remembrance.
At both locations, volunteers from the Sunshine Coast Hospice Society will be available to answer any questions about Hospice and to accept donations. Throughout the year, hospice volunteers offer psychological, emotional and spiritual support to individuals and their friends and families who are dealing with a life-threatening illnesses. Grief support is also available to persons at no cost.
Every year following Lights of Life, there is a special ceremony to officially close the year's program. This event is called Lighting the Memories. It will take place on New Year's Day at 2 p.m. in Snickett Park in Sechelt. The cards and messages that were placed on the trees at both Gibsons and Sechelt will be placed into a fire to symbolize the completion of Lights of Life for this season. The ceremony will include a few final words and song. Lighting the Memories has become a very special and moving event and it is a wonderful way to begin the New Year. Everyone is welcome to attend.
