For many of us the approaching holiday season can inspire fond memories of loved ones who have died. We know that those memories can be bittersweet, and may be accompanied by a sense of loss and loneliness, in the first months and years following a death.

Each year we host our Memorial Tree Lighting Service to bring together families who are dealing with a loss, for a time of mutual support and reflection on the comforting memories the season can bring.

The evening is a combination of music, reflections and special seasonal messages focused on those who grieve. Our service concludes with the illumination of our special Christmas Tree as a beautiful, seasonal memorial to those we’ve lost.

This years’ service, will take place on Thursday, December 5 at the Dennis R. Knibb Auditorium at Saint John High School beginning at 7:00 pm.  The doors will open at 6:30 pm. 

Everyone is welcome and there is no charge to attend.

Location & Parking

Our host venue, Saint John High School is located in uptown Saint John You may enter the auditorium through the main entrance on Duke Street. For those who may have difficulty with stairs there will be an alternate entrance just around the corner on Canterbury Street. As on-street parking may necessitate a short walk to the venue, those with mobility issues may be dropped off curbside at the Canterbury door. We will have staff there to assist.

The Service

Our service is Christmas themed but includes both religious and secular readings and music. It is conducted by our staff  and the Saint John High School Choir. The service is about an hour long. A reception with light refreshments will follow, just outside the auditorium. Typically most guests will depart between 8:30 and 9:00 pm.

The Music 

Once again this year we are very fortunate to have the wonderful young voices of the Saint John High School Choir, under the direction of Patricia Gallagher. 

The Honour Roll

We pay tribute to all of those we have been privileged to serve by adding their names to our Honour Roll which is presented during the service.

Livestream

The service will be livestreamed over the internet for those unable to join us in person. A link will be available here on our website on the day of the service.

For those who are dealing with a loss at this time, it is our wish that the coming holidays will be a time of comfort, healing and warm memories for you, and will find you surrounded by the love and support of those dear to you.