Local clergy offer service of remembrance for community

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Susan Thaine, pastor of the First presbyterian Church of Albion, lights a candle symbolizes love during last week’s “Community Service of Remembrance, Comfort and Hope.”

The Presbyterian Church hosted the service that was led by the Albion Area Ministerium with assistance from Mitchell Family Cremations & Funerals, Hospice of Orleans and the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Orleans County.

Other candles were lit to symbolize hope, peace and joy.

The Rev. Dr. Don Algeo, pastor of the Gaines Congregational Church, shares a message about peace. “So often we allow the burdens of life to get in the way of experiencing true peace with God,” Algeo said. “Take some time this Christmas season to be still and to know the peace of God.”

Other participating clergy included: Rev. Susan Thaine of Albion Presbyterian Church, Rev. Marsha Rivers of Albion First Baptist Church, Rev. Susan Boring of Eagle Harbor Methodist Church, Father Mark Noonan of ONE Catholic Church and Sister Dolores O’Dowd.

Erin Moody sings “Christmas in Heaven.”

Josh Mitchell of Mitchell Family Cremations & Funerals joins a candle lighting.

Other participating leaders from organizations include Rev. Randy LeBaron, director of Spiritual Care for Hospice of Orleans, and Nola Goodrich-Kresse of the Suicide Prevention Coalition.

Myrna Martin was among the singers during the service. About 50 people attended the event.

Gary Simboli also performed, singing, “I Heard the Bells.”