GALLERY: Tree of Lights ceremony honours loved ones’ memories
Hundreds of globes lit up as the community gathered to remember their loved ones during Stepping Stone Hospice & Care Services’ tree-light ceremony on November 1.
On their quest to bring comfort and strength, Stepping Stone Hospice & Care Services recently hosted their Tree of Lights, a ceremony that serves as a beacon of hope and a celebration of life.
The community gathered around the gleaming Stepping Stone Hospice tree as families honoured their loved ones’ memories and cherished the joy and wonder of the Christmas season.
The momentous annual event was a perfect opportunity for families to enjoy carols by candlelight, the beautiful melodies of Alberton Mannekoor en Dameskoor, and mouth-watering treats.
Families and friends of the hospice could also write a dedicated message to their loved ones, which was then posted on a special ‘Tree of Lights’ page on the hospice’s website.
Santa, Bruce Strachan, also spread Christmas cheer with a heart full of love and gave treats to both young and old.
He put smiles on the faces of patients and staff members, appreciating them for their steadfast care for patients with dignity and compassion.
Antonette de Vos, who lost her husband while in their care, said Stepping Stone had a special place in her heart.
“They are amazing! I thank Stepping Stone for their work – for the people they helped and those they currently care for. We attended the event, and everyone joined as the choir sang. It was a lovely event,” she said.
Tersia Burger, CEO of Stepping Stone Hospice & Care Services, who also honoured the life of her daughter Vicky that evening, thanked the community for the support.
“We gathered not as individuals but as a family, a community bound by the love of Christ, celebrating His miraculous birth and remembering those we loved and who have gone ahead of us.
“Christ’s birth in Bethlehem was not merely an event but was a divine testament to God’s immense love for us. Jesus came into this world not to condemn, but to save, to give life in abundance. Amid our rejoicing, let us not forget the essence of His birth,” she said.
She thanked the staff and volunteers for their tireless dedication to providing comfort and dignity to those who need it.
“To our residents and their families, you are not alone this Christmas – love, kindness, and support surrounding you. Let us come together to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas – hope, love, kindness, and compassion.
“Join us in making this Christmas season a little brighter for those around us. Remember your loved one with a deed of kindness – whether it is giving a beggar at a robot an orange or performing any other random act of kindness,” Tersia said.
She reiterated that Christmas is not about the festivities and fanciful lights but, more importantly, about love, kindness, and generosity.
Special thanks to Mariette, Stepping Stone Hospice team (staff and volunteers), Yvette, Lynette, Ben and Joey, John, Jared, Johan and Martie from NG Brackenhurst, Rienie and the Tuesday evening ladies group, Clr Tim Denny, Dr Paul Potgieter and Alberton Mannekoor, Joey and the Alberton Dameskoor, Alberton Methodist Church for the use of their parking area.
