Our candle light program this year, December 12, was very different, but never our love and memory for the sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, and grandchildren who left too soon. Because of the pandemic, we stayed home to really practice social distancing and to keep everyone safe. Although we were not present in person, we felt the love of all who joined us by conference call.
Angela Elliott from Hampton served as the registrar. She recorded attendees from 32 households in Arkansas, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Virginia, and Texas. The program started at 6:45 p.m. with Brenda Norman serving as the host. The invocation was given by Rev. Tyrone Ford. The Compassionate Friends Responsive Reading was read by Rev. Arthur Bealer. The welcome was extended by Hattie Watts, Leader. Genesis and LaShonda Jackson of Monticello, Arkansas, introduced the reason for the season with the song “O Come All Ye Faithful”.
The Five Gifts of Remembrance Ceremony was presented by Brenda Norman who announced each speaker and lighted the candles for the gifts. Joyce Smith emphasized the Gift of Courage. Francis Lane presented the Gift of Hope. Ida Block encouraged the Gift of Memories. Relonda Batts of Monticello spoke on the Gift of Friendship. Beatrice Jones spoke on the Gift of Love.
During the Candle lighting Ceremony everyone lighted their candle in memory of their loved one(s). Telicia Harrell of Monticello read the poem, “Lights of Love”. Laurell Hall of Pine Bluff encouraged the group with the solo “This too, Shall Pass.” Afterwards everyone were asked to blow out their candles.
Remarks were given by Florida Parnell of Michigan and Rose Bowman of Little Rock. Each of the recently bereaved parents expressed their appreciation for the invitation to join in the candle lighting. Hattie Watts drew numbers for the door prizes. Winners of the door prizes were Taylor Brown and Regina Walton from Chicago; Florida Parnell from Michigan; Armethia Willis from Pine Bluff; and Rose Bowman from Benton. Brenda Norman thanked everyone for their participation and support. Participants were invited to send pictures for the newsletter and paper. The program closed with a prayer by Regina Walton.
The Compassionate Friends, Inc. is a national self-help bereavement organization that supports families emotionally during the difficult grieving process following the death of a child. For more information call locally 870-866-6985; the national office 877-969-0010, or visit our national website www.compassionatefriends.org
