Hundreds of twinkling lights will be lit in memory and celebration of loved ones this festive season, in the annual St Richard’s Hospice Lights of Love campaign.
For almost two decades St Richard’s has held Lights of Love church services and events in Worcestershire.
However, this year the restrictions to help keep people safe from coronavirus has meant a Lights of Love service will be held virtually for the first time.
St Richard’s Hospice Fundraising Director, Tricia Cavell said, “Although our Lights of Love campaign will be slightly different this year, it will be just as heartfelt. Thousands in our community will still reflect on the wonderful people who have touched our lives, particularly those who are loved and no longer with us.”
People are invited to donate to the care of St Richard’s and dedicate a Light of Love to celebrate or remember someone special. Lights will shine out from the hospice Christmas tree at St Andrew’s Spire, Worcester, during the festive season and dedicated names will be published on banners around the city landmark.
However, rather than gathering together at services around the county, supporters will be invited to a virtual Lights of Love event from the comfort of their own home.
This unique virtual event will be available to view on the hospice website on Friday, 20th November from 7pm.
Hospice Chaplain Clare Griffiths, will lead the 15-minute service, dedicating the Lights of Love, lighting a candle and reflecting on the lives of loved ones. The virtual event will also show the Lights of Love sparkle as they are switched on at the tree in St Andrew’s Spire, Worcester.
Mrs Cavell added, “We would love everyone to share this special time with us at the virtual service, coming together and supporting each other in spirit and remembering those we cherish.”
Last year, more than 2,700 names were dedicated and £46,908 was raised to help support St Richard’s.
Anyone is welcome to dedicate a light in memory or celebration of a loved one – not simply those who have a connection to St Richard’s.
You can dedicate a light online or call the Fundraising Team on 01905 958262. Supporters who dedicate and donate online will have the added benefit of their personal message being displayed on the St Richard’s online Christmas tree.
If requested, dedicated names will also be printed in the Worcester News on Christmas Eve, Thursday, 24th December.
Lights of Love is kindly sponsored by Fisher German.
St Richard’s Hospice cares for adults with a serious progressive illness, improving their quality of life from diagnosis, during treatment and to their last days. It also supports their loved ones.
Each year the hospice team supports more than 3,300 patients, family members and bereaved people in Worcestershire.
St Richard’s is an independent charity and relies on donations and gifts in Wills for the majority of its income with 20% funded by the NHS.