The Baptist Centers for Good Grief hosted a Holiday Memorial Tree Lighting on Thursday, Nov. 21 at Dorothy’s Cottage in Collierville. The service centered on reflection and remembrance, including the lighting of candles in honor of grief, love, memories and hope.
Angela Hamblen Kelly, administrator of bereavement services, welcomed guests. Erin Robbins, senior grief counselor, offered a prayer. Chaplain Steve Edmonds, director of pastoral care for Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto, shared words of remembrance.
Lauren Strini, executive director of clinical services, introduced the candle lighting ceremony. Leigh Ann Blakely, grief counselor, lit a yellow candle in memory of loved ones who have died.
Melissa Lyons, grief manager, lit a blue candle, representing grief. Laura Cantrell, senior development officer for Baptist Memorial Health Care Foundation, lit a red candle, representing love.
Maria Griffo, grief counselor, lit a white candle in honor of memories of loved ones. Christie Walker, grief counselor, lit a green candle, representing hope for the holidays.
Following the ceremonial tree lighting, participants enjoyed refreshments and fellowship while admiring the Dorothy’s Cottage Christmas tree, adorned with snowflake-shaped commemorative ornaments featuring the names of loved ones who were remembered.
