COEUR d’ALENE — Five candles were lit Thursday night at Hospice of North Idaho, each giving off a warm glow against the backdrop of several Christmas trees.

One symbolized grief. The others: memories, courage and the light that community and love bring into people's lives.

As gentle music played, Spiritual Care Coordinator Jennifer Hackenbruch encouraged the over 100 attendees at HONI’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony to take a deep breath and immerse themselves in their memories of lost loved ones.

“Take this time to allow yourself to fully be present in their memory,” Hackenbruch said. “Stop, take notice of our grief, and be grateful for the lives we have been given.”

The night marked HONI’s 44th Tree Lighting Ceremony, a tradition started by volunteers when HONI opened its doors in 1981.

Each year, HONI staff have invited the public to come together to decorate their Christmas trees with the names of their loved ones, light ceremonial candles and participate in an outdoor “memory walk” on the facility grounds.

“The community supports us in so many ways,” said Bereavement Coordinator Abigail Briggs. “This is how we support them. This event is in our hearts.”

“It’s built into our mission,” added interim Executive Director Shawna Cauley.

     

The winter months can be challenging for those grappling with loss, particularly around Christmastime.

“Our grief can cast a shadow over the magic and bright moments of the holiday,” Cauley said in an address to attendees.

But grief cannot take away the love shared with those who have passed away.

“Grief is all the love you still want to give,” Cauley said. “Grief is just love with no place to go.”

Cauley also commended attendees for finding the strength and courage to gather Thursday night.

“We are a community of grievers,” she said. “Look after each other.”

Attendees like Mary Coulter have found refuge in the ceremony for decades.

The Post Falls resident lost her mother in 2001.

“We’ve been coming every year since then — it’s a tradition,” Coulter said. “It’s a fabulous night of remembrance.”

Members of Lake City High School’s Choir added a special touch to this year’s ceremony, performing songs including “Ave Maria” and “Sing Your Way Home.”

The students found themselves equally touched by the gathering.

“This was something I didn’t know I needed,” said junior Paige Hatfield.

“It’s nice to do something that has an impact on people,” said senior Aubrey Finley.

The girls held onto each other and their fellow students as they took in the emotional atmosphere of the night.

“I’ve always loved how people connect through music,” Hatfield said. “It’s totally beautiful.” 

    Those in attendance at Hospice of North Idaho's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony held candles Thursday night to symbolize the light held within memories of lost loved ones.
  

    Christmas trees at Hospice of North Idaho were adorned on Thursday night with tributes to loved ones who have passed away.