The holiday season can be a difficult time for people who are mourning the death of a loved one, whether that death occurred recently or some time ago. In an effort to help bereaved people throughout the North Thompson valley and the Kamloops area, the local funeral home is holding its annual Christmastime Gathering.
Everyone is welcome to drop in to the funeral home in Barriere on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2-4 p.m.; Clearwater on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2-4 p.m. or Kamloops on Friday, Dec. 4, 2-4 p.m.
The format for the Christmastime Gathering will be more informal than in years past. Everyone is invited to stop by and simply light a candle in memory of their loved one.
“A glowing candle creates a special feeling of warmth,” said MaryAnn Shewchuk, manager of the Barriere and Clearwater locations. “And we hope that lighting it will give comfort to our guests as well. A hot drink, some cookies, a chance to reflect on the past year and on the years to come, will all be a part of the Christmastime Gathering this year,” said MaryAnn. Refreshments will be served.
“This will be the 11th year we have held a Christmastime Gathering,” said Drake Smith, owner of North Thompson Funeral and Drake Cremation Services. “It seems to help bereaved members of the valley to come together and pay respect to their loved one, and we are honored to offer it.”