Article Contributed on: 11/21/2008 3:24:30 PM
Sharon Cooper Associates, Ltd.
16 Inverness Place East, Suite E-200
Englewood, Colorado 80112
303-790-2020
sharoncooper@qwest.net
www.sharoncooper.com
HOSPICE HOSTS 5th ANNUAL HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
CEREMONY on December 5, 2008, 6 to 8 pm
The sea of faces, all sizes, colors and ethnic backgrounds were lit with the bright shine cast by the many hand-held candles. All eyes faced upward, waiting for that dramatic moment when the 65 foot spruce tree was lit. Following the "ahhh" sound that dramatically coincided with the lights suddenly brightening against the darkened sky, was a moment of silence as those in attendance said silent prayers to remember those who passed away. Light snowflakes fell, wiping tears during the prayer, adding to the magic of the moment.
For 4 years, this inspirational event has offered comfort for hundreds in the community and will be offered again on Friday, December 5, 2008, 6 to 8 pm on the campus of the Hospice of Saint John, 1320 Everett Court, Lakewood, Colorado.
The Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place in an oversized, heated and lit tent where attendees can sit and enjoy complementary refreshments, listen to carols and hear the names of those remembered be read aloud. Helpful thoughts and wishes for the season are offered by the Hospice of Saint John Bereavement Department. In true holiday fashion, a supervised children's area offers opportunities to be entertained, make crafts and to enjoy refreshments.
Even parking is stress - free. Free parking is at the nearby Safeway Store on Garrison and 14th. Transportation to and from the Hospice will be provided in decorated, horse-drawn carriages.
For each light purchased for the tree, the purchaser will receive an engraved Collectable Serenity Angel - each light remembers a loved one.
Space is limited. Make reservations and purchase memorial lights by calling Apryl Burton, Development Officer at 303-865-7214 or email: aburton@hospiceofsaintjohn.org
Founded in 1977 by Father Paul von Lobkowitz, O.S.J., the Hospice of Saint John has been providing care for the terminally ill without regard to age, race, religion, creed, sex, national origin, handicap or the ability to pay.
The Hospice of Saint John serves as a grief counseling and bereavement resource for the Denver metropolitan area. Complementary Therapies such as music, sound, touch, pet, aromatic and massage add to the compassionate and comprehensive team care available for patients.
The Hospice of Saint John is accredited by The Joint Commission, the industry gold standard in health care.
HOW TO COPE WITH GREIF DURING THE HOLIDAYS:
1. Celebrate memories. Keep photos and mementos of loved ones around to be touched and enjoyed instead of keeping them out of sight. Use the names of loved ones to be remembered in daily conversation. Grieve in a healthy way and teach others to do the same.
2. Surround yourself with people who are more social than you. They'll talk more and initiate activities, helping the grieving process by activating life. Grief does not have a time clock.
3. Find others with something in common. Sharing experiences can build relationships.
4. Seek professional counsel if the depression seems too deep or lasts too long. People can be lonely, even in a crowd if genetically predisposed to loneliness or sadness. Ask for help.