Glendale Adventist begins new holiday tradition

A Christmas tree-lighting ceremony at Glendale Adventist Medical Center helped ring in the holidays, but the evening saw a solemn moment as more than 100 people lit candles to remember those they’ve lost over the past year.

The 20-foot-tall tree in the hospital’s West Tower lobby was decorated with memorial ornaments dedicated to lost loved ones.

PHOTOS: Glendale Adventist tree-lighting ceremony

“A gentle breeze whispers their names into the universe and the stars become brighter,” said Alice Zulli, the hospital’s chaplain.

Prayers were said as more than 100 people held onto the electronic candles. A rendition of “Silent Night” by the Glendale Adventist Academy Chorale followed.

A large star topped the tree in the memory of Dr. Robert Marsh, who worked at the hospital and passed away in August.

The tree-lighting was the first ever held at the hospital. Donations paid for the decorations and will go toward benefiting hospice and bereavement support programs.

More than $15,000 was raised this year.

Irene Bourdon, president of the hospital’s Healthcare Foundation, said the event will be an annual tradition.

“It’s a really beautiful way to begin the holiday season and reach out to those people who need a little bit of comfort,” she said.