NEWS RELEASE
HOSPICE ORILLIA
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Each December, Hospice Orillia hosts its annual Candles of Remembrance ceremony where community members gather to honour those who are no longer with us.
Traditionally, guests were treated to poetry readings, live music, plus the opportunity to light a candle in memory of their loved ones.
With the overwhelming success of last year’s virtual Candles of Remembrance ceremony, Hospice Orillia has opted to move forward with a similar format for 2021.
“We take pride knowing that last years memorial ceremonies brought much comfort to many, near and far,” says Hospice Orillia’s Bereavement Coordinator, Louise Brazier.
“Based on the feedback we received, combined with the current unknowns surrounding the pandemic, we decided it was in everyone’s best interest to conduct the 2021 Candles of Remembrance ceremony virtually," said Brazier.
“We know that the holiday season can be stressful and it is extra difficult this year not knowing what the future will hold. Those who have lost a loved one may not be ready, or able, to surround themselves with loved ones this year and we want them to know they are not alone," she added.
Community members are invited to submit a photo, along with a sentiment, of their loved ones to be included in this year’s virtual ceremony which will feature poetry readings, music, candles and submitted memorials. The pre-recorded ceremony will become available to the community via the Hospice Orillia website Thursday, Dec. 9 at 6:30 p.m.
“We are thankful that our guests will not be required to brave the unpredictable weather that tends to come along with the Candles of Remembrance event,” Brazier said. “Given the number of individuals served through the 2020 virtual ceremony, we could see this become an event that carries on in the future as it provides everyone the opportunity to participate from the comfort of their own home.”
Traditionally the ceremony would see between 45-60 individuals attended in person; however in 2020 in excess of 1,000 individuals attended one of the virtual memorial ceremonies provided by Hospice Orillia.
“With everything that is going on in the world, it is more important than ever for us to come together, even if it is virtually, to take the time to pause and reflect,” Brazier notes. “We invite the community to RSVP for the event, submit their memorial photos and join us on Dec. 9 from the comfort of their own home for an evening of reflection, poetry, music and memories.”
Submissions will be accepted until end of day on Dec. 2.
To submit your loved ones name and/or photo, or for more information this years Candles of Remembrance ceremony, please visit www.hospiceorillia.ca/candles
For more information on the bereavement services provided through Hospice Orillia please visit www.hospiceorillia.ca or call Louise Brazier at 705-325-0505 ext. 209
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