KITCHENER – Bereaved Families of Ontario – Midwestern Region’s (BFO-MR) Night of Bright Stars memorial event is cherished annual tradition, providing a supportive space for individuals and families to come together and connect in their grief and to honour and remember the people they’re missing.
This year’s event will take place on Nov. 22, from 6:15 to 8:30pm at the Kitchener Public Library, Theatre and Threate Lounge.
“We recognize that feelings of isolation and loneliness may be intensified during a time of year when spending time with family and loved ones is celebrated and valued,” stated Jaime Bickerton, BFO-MR executive director. “Our hope is that guests at Night of Bright Stars feel connected to a community of people who get it, and that it provides a powerful way to honour and remember their loved ones.”
The evening will feature a variety of meaninful activities including:
– musical performances: local artist Eric Bolton will be providing the soundtrack of the evening, performing soothing and reflective music;
– poetry readings: thoughful poetry that resonates with themes of remembrance and hope;
– reflections: personal stories and reflections shared by community members;
– slideshow tribute: a touching slideshow showcasing photos of loved ones, accompanied by their names;
– personalized keepsakes: an opportunity to purchase and hang a keepsake personalized with loved ones’ names on decorative trees as part of the ceremony; and
– children’s craft room: a space where children can engage in creative activities, allowing them to express their feelings through art.
Light refreshments will be provided following the ceremony.
Doors are to open at 6:15 pm with the cermony following at 7pm.
This event is free of charge and open to all members of the community.
Registration is required with a deadline of Nov. 8.
Personalized keepsakes are available for purchase for $20 each with proceeds supporting BFO-MR’s grief support programming and outreach initiatives.
Guests take home their keepsakes at the end of the evening.
“This event is open to anyone who is grieving the death of someone in their life,” stated Bickerton.
“At BFOMR, the definition of family can be anyone with whom you share a relationship. Any kind of relationship. How you define family is your choice alone.
“All grief experiences are welcome.”
