The Baptist Centers for Good Grief hosted the third annual Holiday Memorial Tree Lighting on Tuesday, Dec. 2 at Dorothy’s Cottage in Collierville, Tennessee. The service included a candle lighting ceremony centered on remembrance and hope and the ceremonial lighting of the Dorothy’s Cottage Christmas tree, adorned with commemorative ornaments with names of loved ones who were remembered.
Angela Hamblen Kelly, administrator of bereavement services, welcomed guests. Chaplain Steve Edmonds, director of pastoral care for Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto, shared a prayer and words of hope.
Lauren Strini, executive director of clinical services, introduced the candle lighting ceremony. Melissa Lyons, grief manager, lit a white candle for remembrance. Laura Scott, community support liaison, lit a blue candle representing grief. Christie Walker, senior grief counselor, lit a green candle for renewal and hope.
Robin Edmiston, clinical director, lit a yellow candle representing joy. Michelle Redick, office manager, lit a red candle for love and connection. Nikki Sumpter, grief counselor, lit a purple candle in honor of reflection.
Following the lighting of the Christmas tree, participants enjoyed refreshments, fellowship and singing “O Christmas Tree.”
