PREECEVILLE - For many of us, Christmas brings back many fond memories of times past that speak about how we celebrate this season and with whom we celebrated.
Community and surrounding area residents paid tribute to loved ones who have passed on through purchasing a Christmas light bulb. The bulb was placed and lit on a special memorial tree with names of loved ones who have passed away being acknowledged and recited in a lighting ceremony held in Preeceville on Dec. 17.
The names of loved ones who have passed on were represented by a lighted Christmas bulb on the string of lights on the tree located at the south end of Main Street in Preeceville. The Preeceville United Church Women League sponsored the event.
Rev. David Mugadzi shared a message of encouragement before the names were recited.
“Tonight, we gather at this special tree, a living symbol of memory and love. Just as this tree stands firm through all seasons, so do the memories of those we honour today remain steadfast in our hearts,” stated Mugadzi. “Though the evening is cold, the warmth of their love and the legacy they’ve left us brings light and comfort.
“As we stand here, let us reflect on their lives—the laughter shared, the lessons learned, and the impact they had on each of us. This tree reminds us of growth, resilience, and the enduring connections we hold dear, even in the face of loss.
“May this place be a source of solace, and may it remind us to carry their memory forward, nurturing the love they planted within us,” he concluded.
Mugadzi led the prayer portion, “Dear Lord, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and remembrance. Tonight, under this tree that symbolizes life and hope, we honor those we’ve lost. Thank You for the gift of their presence in our lives and for the memories that remain with us.
“In the chill of this evening, we pray for Your comfort to warm our hearts. May this tree stand as a reminder of Your promise that love never fades and that hope endures. Surround us with Your peace, strengthen us in our grief, and help us to live lives that reflect the love and light of those we remember."
