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Annual Dove Release Memorial Ceremony

Saturday, November 2nd 2024
9:30 am - 11:30 am
Bear Creek Park Pavilion
13750 - 88 Avenue Surrey, B.C.

A
BEAUTIFUL
WAY TO
HONOR A
LOVED
ONE

 Honour and celebrate the life of your loved one by releasing a  dove in a serenely beautiful, meaningful way. To symbolize hope that their departing spirit, may find freedom, peace, serenity and a new beginning.

Doves available are very limited.

To reserve your dove with a $50 donation, kindly RSVP as soon as possible. For those unable to reserve a dove, but who wish to celebrate the life of their loved one, by sound and light at our very special ceremony, we ask you reserve your spot as soon as possible. Your donations in support of the continuation of our program are gratefully accepted.

Dove release for memorials, which is meant to represent a final farewell between loved ones and the departed. Releasing doves may be the perfect way to honor your loved one. It is perhaps in times of sorrow that the sight of a dove soaring against the heavens is most meaningful and awe-inspiring. Throughout the ages, in nearly every culture, the white dove has been the quintessential expression of purity, spirituality, and everlasting love. Truly, there is nothing more touching than the sight of a beautiful dove winging so effortlessly overhead to the sky, winding their way towards the heavens.

In a time of grief and sadness, experiencing a dove release provides a breathtaking sight that is welcoming for the soul and a sweet consolation for the heart. All who witness this amazing sight feel a very special connection to their loved one, as a expression of love, respect, and admiration. Doves and their pure, ethereal beauty provides an incomparable expression of sentiment, hope and sincere consolation.

In addition to the spectacular doves being released, we also provide others wishing to participate their own memorial by offering a very special ceremony by means of sound and light.  These truly awe-inspiring tributes will surely be remembered by all who experience them.

It is with a very special understanding for the families and loved ones that a professional dove release provider respectfully offers their services in hopes of providing some comfort and support at such a meaningful time. Surrey Hospice Society will also have grief supporters on hand that will make themselves available at your convenience to offer support and discuss with you any questions or requests that you might have.

 

The History of White Dove Release

Originating about 5,000 years ago, white dove release is a historical practice that has its roots in Egypt. However, the practice was not limited to Egypt — white doves soon became a popular and impactful symbol across the globe. In fact, they were used in Greek, Roman, European and Chinese cultures in a number of settings. For weddings, Ancient Greek and Roman grooms would give their bride a dove to represent the promise to care for her family. However, for funerals, a white dove release typically signified the spirit’s flight back “home” after their passing. This message has persisted, evolving to accommodate different cultures’ beliefs throughout the years. Regardless of the variations, the practice continues to carry a positive, hopeful connotation around the world.

The Doves’ Well-Being

It’s important to ensure that the doves are kept and released in the best conditions possible. First, know that the doves are trained to return to their “home,” or the place that they are kept. Trained doves can easily make their way back home after a release — their homing abilities span over 600 miles. Our reputable dove handler and provider has plenty of experience working with and releasing these doves. It’s equally important to note that the doves well being is of the utmost importance to us and therefore will only be released in ideal weather conditions, so last minute cancelations may be in effect, Lastly, in order to protect the doves from sickness and danger, we also may postpone the event if there are any transmittable  disease risks in our community, such as Avian Flu.

All our limited doves have been reserved now (Oct 10) we hope to see you at our next release

 

When I am gone, release me, let me go
I have so many things to see and do
You must not tie yourself to me with tears
Be happy that I have had so many years

I gave you my love, you can only guess
How much you gave me in happiness
I thank you for the love each have shown
But now it is time I travelled on alone

So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must
Then let your grief be comforted by trust
It is only for a while that we must part
so bless the memories in your heart

I will not be far away, for life goes on
So if you need me, call and I will come
Though you cannot see or touch me, I will be near
And if you listen with your heart, you will hear
All of my love around you soft and clear

Then, when you must come this way alone
I will greet you with a smile and a Welcome Home

RSVP call: 604-584-7006 or email: info@surreyhospice.com

Thank you to our generous Hospitality Sponsor

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Making People’s Lives Better

With 160+ retirement residences, Chartwell is the largest provider of seniors housing in Canada, serving over 25,000 residents across Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, and right here in British Columbia; where we own and operate 17 residences across the province. We are proud to offer Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Living – for those with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia – in addition to Long Term Care.
We’re all about Making People’s Lives BETTER. You could say we’re in the business of health, happiness, and peace of mind – for older adults, their families, and the communities across Canada we call home.

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