Supporters of a Kerry cancer charity are encouraged to get online again this year to mark the annual Celebration of Light ceremony.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, cancer support charity, Recovery Haven Kerry, will stream its annual Celebration of Light ceremony live on its Facebook page next Thursday, August 19 at 8pm.

The charity is inviting the public to join with them for the virtual ceremony, which aims to celebrate those touched by cancer and remember those we have lost.

While disappointed that the event cannot take place in person, organisers have ensured that the uniqueness of this poignant event remains at the heart of the online ceremony, with all the usual prayers, readings and blessings remaining.

Similar to last year’s online event, the ceremony will feature contributions from Recovery Haven founder, Marian Barnes, the charity’s patron Dick Spring, 2009 Kerry Rose Sally-Ann Leahy, and Rose Hotel owner and valued Recovery Haven supporter, Eibhlín Henggler.

The virtual event, which has been beautifully compiled by the Ballymac CE Scheme, will again be MC’d by Sean Lyons and will also feature a performance from the Kerry Choral Union.

The emotional release of candles and stones will also form part of the celebration from Banna Strand, with the valued support of Banna Sea Rescue.

Organisers are now inviting the people of Kerry to join them on Facebook on the night for what promises to be a truly special virtual experience.

The charity is also encouraging supporters and followers to be part of the ceremony by lighting a candle in their home on the night. Special Celebration of Light candles are currently on sale at Recovery Haven at 5 Haig’s Terrace, Tralee and are also available at SuperValu in Castleisland, Listowel and Killorglin and at both Mods & Minis stores in Killarney.

“Because people cannot be with us in person and release their candles into the water as they traditionally would have, we would love for them to light a candle in their home with us,” said Recovery Haven PR & Marketing Officer, Marisa Reidy. “If they wish, they can also take a photo and tag Recovery Haven on Facebook so we can share and acknowledge their valued participation.”