On Friday 16 December, Moscowa Cemetery & Crematorium (Waterbergseweg 18, Arnhem) organized an 'Evening of Light' together with DELA Uitvaartverzorging, Uitvaartverzorging Kramer plus a large number of volunteers from the Parish of Eusebius. More than 1000 people attended this special memorial evening which was organized this year for the first time.
Wishes
The cemetery was sensitively illuminated with hundreds of candles and torches. Next of kin were given candles to place as a remembrance on the grave or memorial of their loved one. The children were given special brightly coloured lanterns, providing not only extra light but also a more upbeat atmosphere. Soup, coffee and tea were served outdoors, and every half hour a wish balloon – a miniature hot-air balloon – was released, accompanied by the sound and music of the bagpipes. At this spot in the monumental part of the cemetery are a number of ‘wish trees’. Visitors could write special wishes on star-shaped cards and hang them in the trees.
Positive reactions
Moscowa, DELA and Kramer organized the ‘Evening of Light’ to keep alive memories of the deceased and to help next of kin move on with their lives. Reactions from visitors were enthusiastic. Coming together in such a sensitively organized way, yet having the opportunity for individual reflection was, for many, a special and memorable experience.
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