Mother to honor fallen son as part of Worldwide Candle Lighting

Date: 12/9/2008

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor



WEST SPRINGFIELD Everyday Shelia Pecor thinks of her son Kevin. Every holiday season life is filled with only a few moments of yuletide merriment.

On Jan. 13, 2003, Kevin was struck and killed by a car while riding his bike home from work.

In an interview with Reminder Publications, Pecor said each year she "tries to make the holidays more bearable and pleasant" but that she's only been able to sustain that happiness for a few moments each year.

In honor of her son and all those who've lost loved ones, Pecor has organized a candlelight vigil at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, 47 Pine St., on Dec. 14 as part of the 12th Annual Worldwide Candle Lighting sponsored by The Compassionate Friends, the world's largest self-help bereavement organization.

Ceremonies have already been scheduled in over 40 states and 11 countries around the globe.

"The Worldwide Candle Lighting has reached a stage in its life where it's growing at an extraordinary rate as more and more people become aware of the day," Patricia Loder, executive director of The Compassionate Friends, said.

Pecor explained that she chose to organize a West Springfield candle lighting ceremony as a way to commemorate her son's life as well as provide others with an opportunity to gather in remembrance.

"The holidays have been extremely difficult times without my son," she said. "I don't think that people understand that there are others out there suffering in the same way."

Deacon Jim Conroy of the Catholic Diocese will be leading a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. prior to the candle lighting ceremony at 7 p.m.

He explained that he was eager to participate in the ceremony after being approached by Pecor.

"We certainly wanted to do something for the families [who've lost loved ones]," Conroy said. "The holidays are particularly centered around family and children and it's just a reminder of their loss of a loved one. Their grief is always with them but it's enhanced at this time [of year]. I think that faith gives hope that love does conquer all, even death."

All religious denominations are welcome to attend the ceremony and candles will be provided.

For more information about The Compassionate Friends go to www.compassionatefriends.org.