Loved Ones Remembered During Candle Lighting Service
December 23, 2024
On December 21, 2024, over 200 people gathered in Arlington’s serene and picturesque Lakeside Chapel to participate in the annual Christmas Remembrance Service. An Arlington tradition, this event serves as an evocative opportunity for families to come together, honor the memories of their loved ones, and find solace in the spirit of community support during the holiday season.
The evening’s most poignant moment came during the solemn reading of names, followed by the lighting of Memory Candles. As family members stepped forward to honor their deceased loved ones, the chapel was illuminated by a touching display of flickering candlelight, the gentle glow filling the space with a sense of warmth and reflection. Each candle served as a powerful symbol of a love that endures, and a connection that transcends even the passage of time.
The Rev. Dr. Jerome Weaver, pastor of Mt. Healthy United Methodist Church, presided over the service delivering a heartfelt and powerful Remembrance Message, weaving together themes of hope, peace, and the enduring strength of shared memories. His words offered comfort and inspiration during what can be a profoundly challenging time of year for grieving families. Following the service, guests were invited to take a poinsettia and a glass keepsake ornament home with them, compliments of Arlington.
At Arlington Memorial Gardens, we recognize the holidays can be especially difficult for those grieving the loss of a loved one. The Christmas Remembrance Service continues to serve as a testament to the importance of honoring those who are no longer with us while finding support among those who understand.
A heartfelt thank you goes to all who attended and to the families who allowed us to share in this special moment of remembrance. We hope the light of the Memory Candles and the love they symbolize continue to shine brightly in your hearts this holiday season and beyond.
