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Ellsworth Funeral Home to host holiday service
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The 25th annual Community Holiday Memorial Service will be held at the Ellsworth Funeral Home Chapel on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. This is a special service to share with others who have lost a family member.
The Rev. Paul Johansen of Grace Lutheran Church, Nunda, and Lake Madison Lutheran Church, Rutland, will deliver this year's message and special music will be provided by Gary Randall.
Anyone who has lost a loved one in the past, regardless of funeral home preference, is cordially invited to attend this candlelight service.
Families are asked to write a few short sentences about their loved one to be read during the service as the candles are lit. This can be what the person liked to do, their special talents or their personality.
The program also includes suggestions for coping with holiday grief, such as:
-- Take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. The pace of the holiday season can wear out anyone, but carrying the weight of loss on your shoulders can amplify your stress. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating properly and taking time for yourself.
-- Unburden yourself when and where possible. If participating in traditions brings you comfort, by all means do so, but don't be afraid to curb how much you take on this season. For example, perhaps you can be a guest at the family holiday party rather than hosting it this year.
-- Create a holiday plan. Decide which family traditions you want to take part in this year and plan out your participation. A plan can help you avoid getting caught off guard by unexpected activities or tasks.
-- Share your memories with others. The holidays surround us with fond memories. Don't be reluctant to speak about those memories, and the special person that died by name. Sharing memories of your loved one with others can help ebb the loneliness you may be feeling.
-- Above all else, do what's right for you. Your family and friends care about you and will most likely offer advice on what you should do. However, you are the only one that can fully understand what you need to make it through the holidays.
For additional information, Ellsworth Funeral Home has books, brochures and videotapes on coping with grief that are available any time of the year.
If you are planning to attend the memorial service, call Ellsworth Funeral Home at 256-2221 so your loved one can be included in the program bulletin. Refreshments will be served following the service.
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©Madison Daily Leader 2013
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