PORT TOWNSEND — Those mourning loved ones are invited to a free, non-denominational service at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30.
Hospice of Jefferson Healthcare will conduct the annual community memorial service at Quimper Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 2333 San Juan Ave., in Port Townsend.
Anyone in East Jefferson County who has experienced the death of a loved one in the past year is invited.
The service includes music, candle lighting, a program of responsive readings, reflections and sharing of stories and feelings.
It will be officiated by Chaplains Stephanie Tivona Reith and Bernie Ward-Crixell.
Musical interludes will be provided by harpists Paula Lalish and Shannon Ryan, as well as members of the Threshold Choir.
During the annual ceremony a memorial quilt, made by the Cabin Fever Quilters, is displayed.
Family members and friends are encouraged to add a photo or memento to honor and remember their loved one.
The quilt is used as a symbol of hospice and represents the long-held American traditions of home, family, community and caring, all hallmarks of hospice care, according to a statement from the agency.
The annual event is held every fall before the holiday season because the season of cheer is often difficult and lonely for those in mourning, especially during the first year after the death.
The memorial service is funded by the Hospice Foundation of Jefferson Healthcare.
For more information, phone the hospice office at 360-385-0610.
