(PHOTO BY BREANA RELIFORD / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
IN REMEMBRANCE … Master of Ceremonies Bill Priest gave a message before reading the names of the memorial roster.
By: Breana Reliford
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
Christmas is a time of year when many find themselves surrounded by loved ones, family, and friends. During the holiday season, it can also be difficult to miss those who we shared heartfelt memories with who have departed.
The annual “Lighting The Way To Christmas” program offers the chance to remember those who had such a great impact on our lives
This year, the service was held at First Presbyterian Church in Montpelier. Sponsored by the Parkview Montpelier Hospital Auxiliary, the event was free to attend and invited the public in for a warm memorial celebration inside the church, away from the frigid cold and snowfall outside.
The event took place on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 3:00pm. Greeters Connie Dunseth and Jill Beck handed out programs and thanked the public for their attendance. Organist Kay Briner serenaded the audience with several hymns on the organ.
Linda Dilworth, the auxiliary president, introduced the program and welcomed the audience. Bill Priest then took the podium to speak as the Master of Ceremonies.
The invocation was led by Pastor Jan Desterhaft of First Presbyterian Church. Those in attendance joined Pastor Jan in prayer to start the service.
Sara Dye of Parkview led the welcome. She welcomed the group to the ceremony and expressed her gratitude for those who put the program together.
Reverend Kevin Doseck of St. Paul’s Methodist Church in Montpelier led the message once again this year. He gave an emotional testimony of what it means when a loved one has passed.
He stated that although grief may be difficult to deal with or talk about, we must remember and celebrate the life they lived and the life they will live after their passing, according to the Bible.
The reading of the names was conducted by Bill Priest and Joyce Schelling. The 2024 memorial roster allows each name submitted by family, friends, or community members to be read aloud with a moment of silence to follow. This year, over 180 names were read.
Pastor Desterhaft then performed a solo vocal piece for the music portion of the ceremony, as well as the benediction. After the completion of the service, refreshments were offered in the Fellowship Hall.
The memorial luminaries will be lit at Parkview Montpelier Hospital, 909 East Snyder Avenue. The luminaries are arranged in a path allowing community members to drive through and enjoy the lights in memory of their loved ones during the Christmas season.
