Rain or shine, on Jan. 1 at 2 p.m., people converge at Mission Point Park beach to remember family and friends who have died. Coast Hospice has been tending this New Year’s Day fire since 1993.
Last year, about 80 people gathered around the ceremonial bonfire to burn the 650 love notes written during Coast Hospice’s month-long Lights of Life.
As one year ends and another begins, it seems fitting to gather and celebrate the four elements – fire, air, water, earth – and the four directions, see eagles wheeling overhead and children playing on the beach. It’s a great way of setting memories free and welcoming new possibilities.
There will be a short program at 2 p.m. led by Bruce Morris. The Threshold Choir, a women’s group that sings at the bedsides of those who are dying, will share their music with the gathering during the burning ceremony, and warm refreshments will follow.
Each Friday, Coast Hospice hosts Tea and Company from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., a drop-in for people who are grieving the loss of someone. The next eight-week grief group starts Thursday, Feb. 8.
For more information call 604-740-0475 or visit www.coasthospice.com
– Submitted by Bernadette Richards
