Hospice of Natchitoches and Many hosted its Seventh Annual “Lighting of Hospice” Candle Lighting and Memorial Service on Nov. 13, bringing families, staff, and community members together to honor the memory of loved ones who passed away within the last year.
The evening program included prayers, scripture readings, musical reflections, and a four-candle lighting ceremony symbolizing grief, courage, memory, and love. The service is held each year to provide comfort, reflection, and communal support for families navigating loss.
Administrator Dominick Metoyer welcomed attendees and reflected on the history and purpose of hospice care. He noted that hospice traces its origins to the 11th century, when it served as a place of rest for travelers, later evolving into a refuge for the sick and dying. He thanked families for allowing the hospice staff into their homes and emphasized the team-based, holistic approach used to support patients through the end of life.
“During the past 12 months, we’ve encountered many special patients and families,” Metoyer said. “You taught us a lot and made us better healthcare providers.”
Chaplain Mary Keele delivered the memorial message and scripture reading from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. She spoke about the natural process of mourning and the comfort scripture offers to those grieving. Keele emphasized that grief is both a human experience and an expression of love, while the hope of reunion offers spiritual reassurance.
Keele introduced the symbolic lighting of four candles, each representing a different aspect of grief and remembrance: the pain of loss, the courage to continue, cherished memories, and the enduring love left behind. She reminded families that their loved ones’ legacies live on through the light they left in the hearts of those who remain.
Social worker Kasey Sparish offered additional reflections, expressing gratitude for the trust families extend during some of life’s most difficult moments. She described the privilege of witnessing families’ stories, silence, and sorrow, calling it “one of the greatest acts of compassion.”
The program featured musical selections, a memorial video, and an introduction of the hospice staff by Director of Nursing Melissa Britten. Pastor Matthew Pagels led the invocation, and Chaplain Keele concluded the evening with closing remarks and a benediction.
This year marked the 25th anniversary of Hospice of Natchitoches and Many’s service to communities across Natchitoches, Sabine, Red River, Bienville, Rapides, DeSoto, Grant, and Winn parishes. Metoyer credited the organization’s longevity to the dedication of founders Sylvia and Ricky LaCour and the continued support of families throughout the region.
Families in attendance lit individual candles during the ceremony, honoring the lives and legacies of their loved ones. The event provided a peaceful space for remembrance, reflection, and shared hope.
