KITCHENER – For families who are grieving, the holiday season can be an especially difficult time.
Bereaved Families of Ontario – Midwestern Region’s (BFO-MR) annual Tree of Bright Stars memorial event creates an opportunity to unite families in their loss and remember loved ones in a powerful and meaningful way.
This year’s event is being offered online.
“This has been an incredibly challenging year,” said Jaime Bickerton, BFO-MR executive director.
“That’s especially true for people who are grieving and who haven’t had an opportunity to honour or memorialize their loved ones in the ways they are used to because of COVID-19.
“That’s why it was critical that we continue to provide the Tree of Bright Stars event as a way for our community to come together and remember we’re not alone in this.”
Guests are invited to dedicate a personalized glass star, angel or cardinal ornament in memory of their loved ones.
The online ceremony features poem readings, music and stories of hope from BFO-MR members as well as a slideshow of loved ones’ photos.
This year, three-time Juno-nominated recording artist Alysha Brilla is the musical guest. The ceremony takes place on Nov. 27.
“For many who attend the Tree of Bright Stars event, it is a way to ease into the holiday season, which can be difficult to navigate when you are grieving,” said Bickerton.
“It is a safe, comforting space to acknowledge their loss and remember the loved ones they miss so dearly not only during the holidays, but always.
“We are grateful to still be able to offer this space even if we can’t be together in person.”
The deadline to purchase ornaments has now past.
For more information, visit www.bfomidwest.org.
