The rush of activities associated with the holidays that is normally so festive can become completely overwhelming when you are grieving the loss of a loved one. We grieve not only the person we love who has died, but the life we lived with them. This includes physical space and companionship, but also important moments and events. The events of the holidays are forever changed after a loss. Especially during the first years after a loss, feelings of anxiety and even anger associated with holiday celebrations can make us feel isolated and disconnected from those around us who are carrying on with the holidays.
And yet holidays are not a time to be alone. For this reason, The Christi Center hosts an Annual Candlelight Remembrance Service each year during the holiday season. It is a time to come together as a Christi Center family and remember and honor our loved ones. We hang photos of our loved ones on a 20-ft tall Tree of Remembrance and light candles in their memory. In the comforting presence of others who understand, we are free to quietly reflect and feel the range of emotions associated with grieving during the holiday season. Through song, a spoken message of hope and healing, and companionship of others, the Remembrance Service can be a place of comfort and refuge during the hectic holiday season. Please join us on Sunday, December 9th from 3 to 5 pm at St. Edward’s Univeristy. The Remembrance Service is open to all, but we do ask that you RSVP.