Lakeshore ceremony honors loved ones Oct. 5

CENTER HARBOR ― The community is invited to a ceremony and sharing of food in honor of loved ones who have passed away on Monday Oct. 5, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. All are welcome and invited to bring a memento, story or dish to share ― or just to come as you are.

Family, friends, and loved ones will gather on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee at Center Harbor Beach & Pavilion for a brief ceremony and an “ancestral potluck” prepared by the staff of Quality Care Home Health & Hospice.

Many participants will be remembering loved ones who died this year in hospice care with QCHH, but all who are grieving are welcome regardless of any hospice connection. The gathering will be appropriate for all ages.

“Across centuries and cultures, the arrival of autumn has been recognized as a threshold, a time to remember those who are dearly departed and the ways they live on in and through us,” said Dan Kusch, who is helping organize the ceremony for QCHH.

The event is meant to honor grief, but especially to cherish stories of loved ones’ vibrant unique lives ― the little and big things that made them who they were.

“Mother’s famous root beer floats, a husband’s beloved hiking map, a sister’s mac n’ cheese, a poem, a wood carving, a well-worn favorite T-shirt ... we encourage you to bring and share a little glimpse of your beloved,” Kusch said. “And know that laughter, tears, silence and everything in between are welcome.”

RSVPs are requested but not required. In case of bad weather, the event will be held across the street at the QCHH office, 12 Main St.

To RSVP or for information about free grief support groups offered by QCHH, call 603-707-9655 or email dcotnoir@qualitycarehh.com.