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A Wave of Light Around the World
A Wave of Light Around the World
History
History
The Worldwide Candle Lighting began in 1997 as a small remembrance ceremony sponsored by The Compassionate Friends. Today, it has grown into one of the largest annual remembrance events in the world, uniting hundreds of thousands of families in a shared expression of love, remembrance, and hope.
Each candle represents a life that continues to shine in the hearts of those who love them.
Each year on the second Sunday in December, thousands of families across the globe participate in the Worldwide Candle Lighting, one of the most meaningful traditions of The Compassionate Friends.
At 7:00 p.m. local time, families light candles in memory of children, grandchildren, siblings, and other beloved family members who have died. As candles are lit across time zones around the world, a continuous wave of light circles the globe for 24 hours—a powerful symbol that our loved ones will never be forgotten.
Our Eastern Arkansas chapter is honored to host a local Candle Lighting program where families gather to remember, reflect, and find comfort together.
How It Works
How It Works
Our annual program provides a peaceful and meaningful opportunity to honor each loved one.
Families are invited to:
Submit a photo of their loved one for the memorial.
Bring a favorite photo or keepsake for the Memory Table.
Participate in the candle-lighting ceremony.
Spend time with others who understand the lifelong journey of grief.
Everyone is welcome to attend, whether this is your first remembrance event or you have participated for many years.
Program Schedule
Program Schedule
While each year's schedule may vary, the evening typically includes:
Welcome and opening remarks
Inspirational readings
Music and moments of reflection
Memorial banner display
Candle Lighting Ceremony
Closing message of hope
Fellowship and refreshments
Candle Lighting
Candle Lighting
During the ceremony, each family receives a candle to light in memory of their loved one.
As the room fills with candlelight, participants join thousands of others around the world in a shared moment of remembrance, symbolizing that love continues to shine beyond loss.
Memory Table
Memory Table
Families are encouraged to bring a framed photograph or meaningful keepsake to display during the ceremony.
The Memory Table serves as a beautiful visual reminder that every life is remembered, celebrated, and honored.
Memorial Submission
Memorial Submission
One of the most meaningful traditions of our annual Candle Lighting ceremony is our growing Memorial Wall.
Each year, we create and display memorial banners featuring the photos of the children, grandchildren, siblings, and loved ones being remembered. Families are invited to submit a photo of their loved one to be included on a memorial banner.
These banners are displayed throughout the ceremony, creating a beautiful and heartfelt Memorial Wall that serves as a lasting tribute to the lives that continue to be remembered and celebrated. Each year, previously created banners are displayed alongside new ones, allowing our Memorial Wall to grow as a visible reminder that every life matters and every loved one is forever remembered.
Submission information and photo deadlines will be announced each fall in preparation for the annual ceremony.
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