Brandon Funeral Home Hosts 28th Annual Tree of Memories Service

A funeral home in Brandon, Canada, is set to host its 28th annual Tree of Memories candlelight service on December 5, 2023, offering support to those grieving the loss of a loved one during the holiday season. Brockie Donovan Funeral and Cremation Services organizes this event, which provides a space for remembrance and reflection.

Honoring Loved Ones with Special Ornaments

During the ceremony, attendees will have the opportunity to hang personalized ornaments on a Christmas tree. Each ornament features the name of a deceased loved one printed in gold along with a poem. These ornaments are made of heavy cardstock, adorned with a green hook and either a gold or green bow, allowing individuals to commemorate their loved ones in a meaningful way.

Lisa Hammond, special events and after-care co-ordinator at Brockie Donovan, emphasized the importance of the gathering. “We come together in the spirit of comfort and companionship,” she stated. “I think it just helps people feel that they’re not alone and they are part of this greater community who is grieving alongside them.”

Those wishing to receive a free ornament must contact the funeral home by December 4 to ensure availability for the ceremony, which begins at 19:00. Past services have attracted around 600 participants, reflecting the event’s significance within the community.

Creating a Supportive Environment

The service will be officiated by funeral celebrant Kim Lewarne and Craig Miller, a minister at Knox United Church. Attendees can also enjoy a musical performance by the duo Wildflower Whiskey, consisting of Julianna Moore and Rob Lovatt. Each participant will receive a candle to hold during the ceremony, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere.

The holiday season can be particularly challenging for those mourning the loss of a loved one. Hammond shared her personal experience, recalling the absence of her father during the holidays. “Not having him over the holiday season, it’s really hard to not have him present at the dinner table,” she reflected. She mentioned that she remembers him by playing his favorite Christmas music, a ritual that helps keep his memory alive.

Hammond noted that grief is a continuous journey, stating, “You carry it with you forever. It’s never going to leave you, but it softens.” She encourages individuals to establish their own supportive rituals, which may include leaving an empty chair at the table for the deceased, creating a memory box, lighting a candle, or simply continuing to speak about them. “There’s no time frame on grief,” she added, acknowledging that everyone experiences loss differently.

Attendees can choose to take their ornaments home following the ceremony or pick them up at the funeral home at a later date. This event serves not only as a tribute to those lost but also as a reminder of the shared experiences of grief within the community.