PREECEVILLE — For many of us, Christmas brings back many fond memories of times past that speak about how we celebrate this season and with whom we celebrated.
Community and surrounding area residents paid tribute to loved ones who have passed on by purchasing a Christmas light bulb. The bulbs will be placed and lit on a special memorial tree with names of loved ones who have passed away being acknowledged and recited in a lighting ceremony held in Preeceville on Dec. 11.
The names of loved ones who have passed are represented by a lighted Christmas bulb on the string of lights on the tree located at the south end of Main Street in Preeceville. The Preeceville Trinity United Church Women's League sponsored this event.
“Tonight we gather around this tree not simply to light bulbs and place ornaments, but to honour the names, the stories, and the memories of those we love and miss,” said David Mugadzi, United Church minister.
“In this gentle glow, we hold together the beauty of remembrance and the ache of absence. For some of us, this season brings joy and celebration; for others, it awakens grief in unexpected ways. But here, in this sacred moment, we make space for all of it.
"Each light on this tree is a reminder that love does not end. Death may change the way we relate to those who have gone before us, but it cannot extinguish the bond we share. As we light this tree, we declare that their lives continue to shine in us, through the lessons they taught, the laughter they shared, and the love they poured into our lives.
We gather in hope, trusting that God is near to the brokenhearted, gentle with the grieving, and faithful to hold every tear. As we light this memorial tree, may its glow be a sign of comfort, peace, and enduring love.”
Mugadzi recited the scripture reading, Psalm 34:18,“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
He followed with a prayer for the lighting. “Loving and ever-present God,
"We gather this evening carrying memories tenderly in our hearts. We thank You for the lives of those whose names we speak and those whose absence we feel so deeply. As we light this tree, may its gentle glow remind us that Your light still shines in every season, especially in seasons of grief.
"Comfort all who mourn tonight. Surround each person here with Your peace that calms, Your love that restores, and Your hope that lifts us from the shadows. May the memories of our loved ones warm our spirits, guide our steps, and remind us that we are never alone.
"Bless this memorial tree and bless this community. May its light be a symbol of Your presence among us, faithful, compassionate, and everlasting. In the name of Christ, the Light of the World. Amen."
Miles Russell recited all 170 names of those a bulb was purchased in memory of.
The evening concluded by singing one verse of "Silent Night."
