Gently falling snow provided a wintry backdrop for Greenwich Hospital’s annual Tree of Light celebration, which brought area residents and hospital staff together to honor the lives of loved ones we continue to hold dear.
The non-denominational event held on Dec. 2 featured readings and music, culminating with the lighting of an evergreen tree strung with hundreds of lights. “Each light represents a life well lived and a life well remembered,” said Norman G. Roth, Greenwich Hospital president and chief executive officer.
Donations from the purchase of lights support the hospital’s Palliative Care program to comfort seriously ill patients and their families.
Rabbi MJ Newman, Palliative Care chaplain, spoke of her sacred work with patients, who often share words of wisdom and hope, even as they face their final days. Their memory lives on in the hearts of family and friends. “To remember. That is our sacred commitment to those who have gone before us, and it is a privilege of our humanity,” she told guests.
The evening included an invocation by Father Eddie Lopez, director of Spiritual Care, and poetry readings by Judy Holding, Oncology chaplain. Musical selections were provided by The Grace Notes Trouping, cellist Gunnar Sahliln and guitarist Harris Becker.
The tree will remain on the Sanna and Victor Borge Terrace until Jan. 6 before being planted in the hospital’s Carl and Dorothy Bennett Community Garden, which is open to the public.
