t1211luminary.htm

Holly Hill luminary project returns December 2011

by Staff Writer: Eliot Duke

A Thomasville cemetery is offering people a chance to honor lost loved ones while helping out their community.

Holly Hill Memorial Park's luminary project returns for its sixth year where candles can be purchased for a special ceremony on Dec. 17 that commemorates the love of those who have passed on. Proceeds from the candle sales benefit Fairgrove Family Resource Center, Cooperative Community Ministries and Thomasville Fire Department.

"This program has been a great success," said Sue Berringer, administrative assistant at HHMP. "It's very beautiful, and it's an opportunity to help many different families in need."

HHMP started its luminary project in 2006 and has seen it grow every year. In 2010, close to 5,000 candles were lit at its annual ceremony, helping raise more than $7,000 for the three organizations. Berringer said there is no set price for the candles.

"We've always considered this a donation," Berringer said. "It's the giver's choice. We request they give no less than $3 but it's whatever people feel comfortable giving."

As someone who has seen the impact the three organizations can make on people's lives up close, Berringer hopes others will find a way to give despite trying economic times. On Dec. 9, 2009, Berringer's son lost his home to a house fire. CCM, FFRC and TFD all stepped in to ensure the family had what it needed as they tried to rebuild their lives.

"They lost everything," said Berringer."You never know what something is going to hit home for you. I've been a volunteer on the project since its inception but I never thought I would be a recipient. My son and his family were."

"Each organization took one of my son's children and bought Christmas for them. It was always a good project but it really took on new meaning when I saw what they did for my own family. It really is a 'wow' when you have absolutely nothing and you're standing in ashes not knowing what to do next."

All the candles will be lit on Sat. Dec. 17 at HHMP. Candles and a white flag are placed by each grave marker and are lit in unison following a prayer from a TFD chaplain. The candles burn for up to 10 hours and a loved one doesn't have to be buried at HHMP in order for someone to participate. If a loved one is buried at another cemetery, the candle will be arranged with others in the form of a cross at HHMP's entrance.

"This project allows people who want to honor their loved ones at Christmas and also support agencies who are helping people suffering in Thomasville," said Terri Nelson, executive director of FFRC. "It has been a very large fundraiser for us every year and is a fairly substantial donation. We're very concerned about being able to keep our shelves stocked to satisfy the demand this is coming in every day."

For more information, 472-7455 or 472-7217.

Staff Writer Eliot Duke can be reached at 888-3578, or duke@tvilletimes.com.

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