The dedicated folks who help light up the lives of local hospice patients lit up a Christmas tree in remembrance of those they’ve known and served during a special memorial service last Sunday.

The wooden pews inside the Church of the Loving Shepherd were filled with family members of those who had been served by Neighborhood Health hospice caregivers. They had come to support Neighborhood Health, but also to remember a loved one by hanging an ornament on a Christmas tree.

It was the sixth time Neighborhood Health hosted the event.

“On behalf of the entire staff and board of directors, I would like to thank you for allowing us to care for your loved one and be part of your family,” Chester County Hospital’s Neighborhood Health Executive Director Andrea Devoti said.

“I could never do what the hospice staff at Neighborhood Health does. They are angels and they do a wonderful job. But I certainly will do everything I can do support them. And I’m thrilled that you’re doing the same thing,” she added.

The Evening Branch of the Women’s Auxiliary to Chester County Hospital hosted the Remembering Our Angels Tree Lighting.

“Neighborhood has been caring for our community since 1912. And we’re very, very proud of that and humbled by your family’s decision to let us help you on this difficult journey,” added Heidi Owen, director of hospice.

The hanging of personalized die-cut cardstock angel ornaments followed the tree lighting. Each ornament was illustrated with the beautiful holiday artwork of nationally recognized Chester County artist and resident Dennis Minch.

And once again this year, the memorial was aided by music from the Bishop Shanahan Woodwind Ensemble under the direction of Mr. Chuck Keating. The event elicited an atmosphere fitting remembrance and contemplation.

And the 101-year tradition of providing quality, compassionate care to residents of Chester County and surrounding communities was at the center of it all.

Hospice chaplain the Rev. Craig Bean, whose parents were served by hospice before they passed, delivered the memorial service.

“When I come to this time every year I’m not sure if I should speak as a chaplain or to speak as someone who has sat where you are now sitting, I feel their presence and I identify with your pain as we come together.”

The ornaments, which bear the name of family members, were then transported back to the Neighborhood Health family lounge where they adorn two trees for the remainder of the holiday season.