COAL TOWNSHIP - VNA Health System Crossings Hospice hosted a memorial service to honor past hospice patients who have entered into eternal rest.
More than 50 family members and friends gathered with VNA Health System (VNAHS) staff members at the Mountainside Assembly of God Church to honor 140 individuals during the Remembrance of Love ceremony.
Linda Gula, director of hospice, welcomed attendees. The Rev. Glen Keidel, hospice chaplain, presented a spiritual message for family and friends, which provided inspiration and insight for living life fully.
Accompanied by James White, community liaison, on the piano, the congregation joined the staff in singing hymns and the candle lighting service. Gula and hospice nurses Charlene Shuder and Carla Young took turns reading aloud the names of former hospice patients as family members came forward to light a candle in their memory and were also gifted with a rose. A special part of the ceremony is a video presentation that features family photos and inspirational messages for all to share.
Staff members also dedicated poems and shared experiences and fond memories.