THE HOLIDAYS are one of the most difficult seasons for families who have experienced the loss of a loved one. The traditions shared and the memories held dear surrounding Christmastime are a source of both joy and heartache. To bring comfort and peace during this time and to allow families the opportunity to honor their loved ones in a special way, Moore-Cortner Funeral Home proudly sponsors the annual Christmas Candlelight Service, hosted at Franklin Memorial Gardens and Watson Memorial Park.
This cherished tradition, held at dusk in mid-December, gathers families together in a moving tribute of remembrance. Scot Bradford, the director of family services and a certified celebrant at Moore-Cortner and Franklin Memorial Gardens, said the many candles create a beautiful commemoration for these families.
“Over 5,000 candles are lit, each representing a family or person who has lost someone dear to them,” Bradford said.
As the soft glow of the candles illuminates the winter night, families are invited to pause, reflect, and honor the lives and memories of their loved ones.
The sea of flickering lights that pierce the darkness of the evening becomes a symbol of hope and unity, reminding all who attend this meaningful event that grief is never carried alone. Attendees can find solace in the knowledge that the love and memory of those who have been lost are still shining brightly in the hearts of the family members standing to honor them in this place. Stories of beautiful memories and holiday traditions, funny anecdotes, and lessons passed down through the generations are shared. A deep sense of community emerges through telling these stories as neighbors and friends stand side by side in remembrance.
Franklin Memorial Gardens and Watson Memorial Park both provide gorgeous, serene settings for these meaningful gatherings. Franklin Memorial Gardens’ meticulously maintained grounds offer a tranquil and beautiful setting for families to reflect, pray, or talk with their loved ones as they rest in the caring hands of Franklin Memorial Garden’s Staff. Watson Memorial Park’s commitment to honoring personal traditions ensures each family’s unique needs are met with care and sensitivity. The professional and caring staff at both locations are dedicated to ensuring each service meaningfully honors the individual’s life and cherished values while also providing excellent care for the families.
The Annual Candlelight Service, held at each of these locations, offers reassurance that none who are lost will ever be forgotten as long as we continue to shine their light to the world and remember their precious legacies. Those who attend will be greeted with warmth, understanding, and respect as they grieve or reflect on the ones they have lost.
All families with loved ones resting in Franklin Memorial Gardens or Watson Memorial Park are warmly invited to attend this year’s event: the 2025 Christmas Candlelight Service in Winchester. This is an opportunity to find peace, comfort, and community during this holiday season. The service will be held at dusk on Dec. 22, 2025. GN
For more information about the candlelight service or other services Moore-Cortner Funeral Home offers, visit www.moorecortner.com.
This story is sponsored content.
