On April 27th, over 100 family members who lost loved ones and were supported by the McLean Hospice Program in 2012, joined the Hospice Team of professionals, hospice aides and volunteers at the McLean Annual Interfaith Memorial Service. Attendees came from far and wide – the Farmington Valley, Southington, Hartford, and as far as Watertown, MA, to commemorate and reminisce about their loved ones. The service was held at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, Simsbury, followed by a reception at the parish center. McLean Hospice holds this annual event as an integral part of its Bereavement Support Program.
McLean’s Hospice Medical Director, Kevin Baran, opened the service and welcomed all. He spoke of the impact and legacy each loved one left behind. He acknowledged the courage it took for many who were grieving to join in the event and encouraged them to receive the support of the community in attendance. He spoke of the privilege it was for Hospice to be part of the care for each person. Rev. Barbara Briggs lead the attendees in a prayerful remembrance. The service that followed included meaningful readings, poetry, interactive responses and songs. A special candle lighting ceremony followed the reading of the deceased names. Guests were appreciative, comforted, and moved by the service.
Ms. Gellin of Hartford said she “was honored” to attend and later wrote in a note to Hospice, “I thought today’s memorial celebration was so tasteful, respectful and inclusive. It provided time to reflect, as well as provided a sense of joy in the voices and the various readings. Thank you to all who made it possible. I also enjoyed …seeing the hospice team who were so wonderful to my mother.”
Mrs. Daggett of East Granby wrote: “Our hearts are filled to overflowing with gratitude for the beautiful service….The music, poetry, readings, candles and rituals were deeply moving and healing. The reception provided an opportunity to thank many of you for the care you provided for our mother…”
In addition, family members contributed quilt squares in honor of their loved ones. Volunteer Jerri Pease spoke to the audience about the symbolism of the squares …each one unique representing the talents and qualities of those being honored … eventually being sewn together “as in the tapestry and interconnectedness of life” to form a new Quilt of Life. Attendees were able to view the Hospice Memorial Quilt from 2011 created by quilter Dottie Szapulski, Barkhamsted. Mrs. Gardow of Simsbury was thankful for a particular poem on the Hospice Quilt from 2011. She said it she found the words so meaningful and it brought her comfort. Overheard during the reception were accolades for the wonderful music provided by area musicians. Pianists who donated their time in support of the event were Larry Batter and Tim Lillis, and singers, Terry Nowakowski , Mandy Dickson, as well as, Hospice LCSW Mike Covault.
Sara Szafranski, Interim Hospice Director, closed the service reminding all to reflect on the day’s readings and how the loved ones would forever be in the hearts and minds of loved ones. She explained that Hospice chose a long-stemmed rose as a parting gift from the ceremony as it universally represented love and hope.
McLean Hospice serves the Farmington Valley, through Bloomfield, West Hartford and Windsor and is expanding into Bristol and Burlington. For more information call 860-658-3950 or visit our website www.mcleanhospice.com McLean’s bereavement support group services are open to all in the community, regardless if the deceased was served by Hospice.
