By By Arthur McLean
Soft greetings were exchanged as individuals, young and old slowly walked forward to light a candle in the chapel of Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home in Atmore.
Rows of candles began to glow under an electric light wreath hung in the chapel.
Each light represented a loved one lost recently, be it a family member or close friend.
"This time of year can be so difficult, because they're all about family," said Rev. Mike Grindle. Grindle, pastor of Brooks Memorial Baptist Church, along with a host of other clergy from Episcopal to Presbyterian welcomed the mourners and offered words of comfort and prayer.
"We're here just to give some comfort and pray with the people as they come," Grindle said. "It's difficult, because their thoughts are returning to their loved ones during the holidays."
"I think this is the third year they've held this, and each year, it has rained cats and dogs, but this year, God reversed it. It rained early in the day and it is a beautiful evening," Grindle said.
A pink sunset slowly faded to deep blue and black as some would light candles, receive words from a pastor and join in prayer. Others sat quietly in the chapel pews, remembering lost loved ones and taking a moment of quiet contemplation and reverence.
The ceremony has become something of a tradition in Atmore, hosted by Johnson-Quimby.