The Lights of Love: Remembering those we love, honoring those we've lost

Lights of Love event volunteers Donna Menzi and Bonnie Billings (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Cornerstone VNA announced today that the 39th Annual Jane Cooper Fall Lights of Love Celebration will take place on Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Rochester.

The event is designed to usher in the holiday season with a heartfelt remembrance of family and friends including our beloved babies.

Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. to allow for a newly added Lights of Love tag-making station.

For nearly four decades, Lights of Love has been a cherished community tradition, founded through the dedication and vision of Jane Cooper Fall, who began the special gathering as a way for community members to pay tribute to those who have touched their lives in meaningful ways.

Although Jane passed away in October 2018, her legacy continues through the ongoing efforts of Cornerstone VNA staff, volunteers from the former Frisbie Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Board, community members and Jane's many dear friends.

"Cornerstone VNA is proud to uphold Jane's enduring vision through this event, preserving her legacy of compassion and community for generations to come," said Jennifer Ufkin, president and CEO of Cornerstone VNA. "It is an honor to create a comforting space for remembrance and celebration each year."

Community members are invited to participate in this heartfelt holiday tradition to remember, honor, and celebrate loved ones -- including beloved pets. With a $5 donation per name, participants can pay tribute to someone special. Orders received by Monday will be included in the printed event program. To order Lights of Love, visit cornerstonevna.org/lightsoflove. Paper order forms can also be downloaded from the website or requested by calling 603-332-1133 x1109.

All are welcome to attend the Lights of Love Celebration in person, featuring music by the Choir of the First United Methodist Church, the Witherell Hand Bell Choir and homemade refreshments before and after the program.

To register, call 603-332-1133 x1109. Those unable to attend in person may view a recording of the event, which will be posted to cornerstonevna.org/lightsoflove a few days after the celebration.

To learn more, visit www.cornerstonevna.org or call 603-332-1133.