For some family and friends who were not allowed to hold or attend memorial services for their loved ones due to COVID-19 or other pandemic-related restrictions, it has been difficult to process closure. The Waco Seventh-day Adventist Church in Waco, Texas, opened its doors on the evening of March 26, 2022, to anyone wanting to participate in a memorial service honoring those who passed away during that time.
Several individuals brought photos of their loved ones to share with those in attendance. One of the visitors started playing the piano, providing beautiful background music.
Waco church member Steve Mallery welcomed those present and started the service with prayer. Donna Reinke, Claire Boca and Jenny Henriquez, also Waco church members, encouraged those in attendance to join them in singing a few meaningful hymns accompanied by the visiting pianist.
District Pastor Vanoy Fitch shared thoughtful words about death, dying and living again when Jesus comes. Waco church member Manuel Henriquez shared some experiences from his work as a hospice chaplain in the Waco area.
At the conclusion of the service, paper hearts with embedded flower seeds were given to all who wanted one to plant and nurture in memory and honor of their deceased loved one.
Henriquez offered to facilitate a grief recovery seminar for those interested in attending. The program assists those experiencing significant loss (death of family or friend, job loss, health challenges, failed marriage or any event that has taken someone or something of value).
The Lord blessed those who came together and encouraged each other in their grieving process. Hopefully, they left feeling a little more hopeful.
—Shared by Joan Bowen
A version of this article appeared in the July/August 2022 issue of the Southwestern Union Record. You can find the online issues here.
