On September 26, Family Promise of Morris County and Neighbors in Need will be hosting a community-wide, “at-home” candlelight vigil to honor those most impacted by the pandemic. We encourage individuals and congregations throughout Morris County to participate from home or together as a congregation.
Should you wish to be in unison with other participants, please begin at 7:30 PM on Sept. 26.
Intention: Morris County’s Candlelight Vigil offers the community a space to mourn any loss experienced over the course of the pandemic. A special remembrance goes out to those experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, who were immensely impacted by the public health and worsened housing crisis.
What You’ll Need:
Candles
Matches or a lighter
A quiet, comfortable space
Agenda:
7:30 PM – Opening Prayer
To set the intention for your vigil, open with a prayer or thoughtful words of your choice. You may also refer to the intention at the top of this page.
7:35 - 8:10 PM – Reflection Activity (*For groups, pairs, or individuals.)
For Groups or Pairs:
Before you begin, please read aloud the definition for active listening below.
Break out into pairs or small groups; set a 3-5-minute timer for each participant’s share.
For Individuals:
Before you begin, please read aloud the definition for mindfulness below.
Read the questions below. Feel free to write out responses, draw, answer aloud or silently, contemplating your thoughts pertaining to each question. Take 3-5 minutes for each question, as is comfortable.
8:10 - 8:50 PM – Candle Lighting Ceremony
Hold your candle or pass out candles to all congregation members.
Light the first candle and pass the flame to your neighbor; repeat this down the line.
Place all candles together and sit in reflection for 15 minutes.
If able, please take a picture and share your individual or whole congregation’s experience on Instagram. Make sure to tag us @NeighborsInNeedMorris and @FamilyPromiseMorris
8:50 - 9:00 PM – Closing Prayer/Intentions
Offer a closing prayer and thank everyone for participating.
Reflection Activity Questions:
How has the last year affected you personally? What grief did you encounter? What do you gratitude?
How has the last year affected the greater Morris County community?
*Active Listening: Active listening refers to a pattern of listening that keeps you engaged with your conversation partner in a positive way. It is the process of listening attentively while someone else speaks, paraphrasing and reflecting back what is said, and withholding judgment and advice.
*Mindfulness: The quality or state of being conscious or aware of something; a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations.