Worldwide Candle Lighting Day

Worldwide Candle Lighting Day is observed every second Sunday in December and is a 24-hour global candle-lighting ceremony that symbolizes the support offered to parents who have lost a child.

This event is considered the largest candle-lighting ceremony in the world. It’s a way to show these parents that the world is thinking about them and that the memory of their children will continue to endure.

Everyone interested in observing this holiday can do so by visiting the Compassionate Friends website and finding out how they can participate. People can also visit their website to find out how they can support a family after their child has died.

The History of Worldwide Candle Lighting Day

In 1969, Compassionate Friends was established when a chaplain at Warwickshire Hospital in England brought two sets of grieving parents together to support one another. In 1997, they created Worldwide Candle Lighting Day in honor of children who lived tragically short lives. This holiday has been observed ever since.

Dealing with the Sudden Loss of a Child

Below are some tips we’d like to share with everyone in dealing with the sudden loss of a child. We sincerely hope the following points will prove helpful to anyone and everyone who needs help after the death of a child.

  • Families should stick together during this tragic time to support one another.
  • Families should seek professional help.
  • Families should find a support group.
  • Everyone should pay attention to their health.
  • Avoid negative people.
  • Slowly ease back into normal routines.

Observing Worldwide Candle Lighting Day

This holiday begins at 7 pm local time, and people light candles for an hour all around the world. People can also spread the word about #WorldwideCandleLightingDay on social media. This is also a time when people can support those who have lost their children due to illness or tragedy.

When is it?
This year (2024)
December 8 Sunday
Next year (2025)
December 14 Sunday
Last year (2023)
December 10 Sunday
Topic
Relationships & Family