OCEAN CITY – Coastal Hospice will host a “Sea Shell Memorial Gathering” on the Ocean City Fishing Pier on Tuesday, Oct. 9, from 3-4 p.m. The purpose of the free, public gathering is to provide a personal moment to remember, reflect and offer gratitude to those who have died.
“It is a chance to be surrounded by the love, understanding, and support of others — even strangers who are experiencing many of the same feelings and emotions,” said Coastal Hospice Bereavement Services Manager Howard Travers. “We are strengthened as a community as we reach out to support others and build understanding of our common human values and experiences.”
Those who attend will write the names of loved ones or special personal messages on sea shells, and then return the shells to the sea. Guests may bring their own special shells, or Coastal Hospice will have shells available. At 3 p.m., a brief memorial service will be held with singing, inspirational readings, ideas on how to cope with grief over the upcoming holidays, and quiet reflection.
Coastal Hospice staff members, including spiritual and bereavement counselors, will be present.