The service is usually scheduled during the first week in December in the funeral home Chapel. As the Chapel begins to fill, it becomes apparent why this service means so much to so many people in this community. Families are greeted by friends and other family members who have come to share fond memories, and the pain of losing a loved one.

Friends and Family Members gather

As the service gets underway, four prominently placed candles are lit which represent: the need to acknowledge grief and the impact it has on our lives, courage to confront our sorrow and the need to deal with it, the precious memories of our loved ones, and the love that remains in our lives because they were part of it. The service is opened with prayer and words of welcome. There is special music, after which a speaker, often a local minister, offers heartfelt words of comfort and encouragement for the Holiday Season to those who still feel the pain of loss. We are reminded that our loved ones live on in our memories, and for that reason are never completely lost to us.

The Memory Tree

   The Memory Tree is located in the Chapel, and each light on the tree represents the name of a loved one who has passed away during the past several years, as well as names of those who passed away during the current year. The names from the current year are read aloud during the service, and each person in the congregation is given a candle which is lit during the reading of the names. Jimmy Herring, Director of Bereavement Services, explains, "The simple symbolism of having a light on a tree, and lighting a candle in memory of someone they've lost, seems to provide a measure of peace to families and friends at this very difficult time of year."

   As the service comes to a close, participants take the opportunity to greet and hug their family members and friends once more. It is at this time that the memories begin to flow, and the sharing of stories about the love and joy of the deceased can be heard throughout the congregation. For many, another year has passed and the healing process continues. They realize that there are other opportunities throughout the year to honor their loved-ones, but are glad that they have taken time during this busy season to remember the persons who meant so much to their lives. It is easy to see why so many people return year after year with a renewed sense of encouragement.