A standing room only crowd attended the 28th annualAvenue ofAngels Lighting Ceremony Sunday evening at the Arbuckle Memorial Hospital.
Rev. Dick Terry opened the ceremony with prayer and welcome to all attendees.
A brief history of the angels and ceremony was given by Kathy John.
The angel display and ceremony began in 1997 with 15 angels displayed and names read at the ceremony.
At the Sunday night event, Sulphur School Superintendent Matt Holder and his wife, Kena, read more than 280 names now displayed on the memorial plaque.
The plaque is on display on the front lawn of the hospital with the angels.
Rev. Cory Nabors presented a brief message of remembrance, memories and encouragement to the crowd.
The local SASO Choir sings during Sunday night’s Avenue of Angels ceremony, held in the lobby of Arbuckle Memorial Hospital. PHOTO BY DON COFFEY
The SASO Choir led in congregational singing of “Joy To The World” followed by special music from the group.
The Sulphur High School Singers were also on hand to bring special music to those in attendance.
Following the reading of names and a moment of silence, candles were lit by all in attendance as the angel lights were turned on. During the lighting of candles the crowd sang “Silent Night.”
Jim Parker closed the ceremony with prayer. Members of the First Free Will Baptist Church adopted the project several years ago and work tirelessly to make sure the lights are working, putting up the display and taking it down each year.
Angels can be purchased any time during the year and the cost is $50.00. The Avenue of Angels is a self supporting project and donations are always welcome and appreciated.
