A Christmas tree event to remember loved ones
A KILLINARDEN man is inviting the public to attend a Night of Remembrance, where they can put a decoration on a large Christmas tree in memory of their loved ones.
The event will take place in the Killinarden Community Centre on December 3 at 6.30pm.
Killinarden Community Centre
Paul Griffin decided to organise the event after a relative of his tragically passed away earlier this year.
He was touched by the support the local community gave him and his family, and wanted to hold an event for the community to come together and remember all of their loved ones who have passed away.
Paul told The Echo: “I had a tragic loss in January, and I reflected on it through the year. The community gave me tremendous support.
“After my relative died, people I barely knew stopped me on the street and gave me hugs, and offered support and comfort.”
Paul got in touch with the manager of the Killinarden Community Centre, who was happy for the centre to host the event. He added that the entire team at the centre have been supportive of the Night of Remembrance, and that local and national businesses have also backed the event.
The central focus of the night will be for all who attend to remember their loved ones, and to put decorations – made by local schoolchildren – on the tree in memory of those who have died.
“The night is completely open to everyone to attend,” said Paul. “It’s open to relatives and friends of anyone who’s passed away.
“Everyone has been touched by loss, and all can attend. It doesn’t matter what caused their loved one to pass away, all are welcome.”
The lights on the Christmas tree will be turned on by members of Killinarden Community Centre’s Youth Club, the Knocklyon Gospel Choir will perform, and a local parish priest will offer blessings.
Light refreshments will also be available at the remembrance night, and all attendees at the event will receive a free raffle ticket, with the winners of a variety of different raffle prizes being announced at the end of the night, to end it on an uplifting note.
