Light in the Darkness

Light in the Darkness is an outdoor event sponsored by the Astoria Scandinavian Heritage Association to remember those who have passed but are still in our memories at Christmas time. It’s also a fundraiser for Astoria Nordic Heritage Park and an opportunity to experience the park and enjoy community at nighttime. Light in the Darkness will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 PM on Friday, December 12, with a brief ceremony at 6 PM. In case of rain, canopies will be provided. Wear warm clothing, and bring a lawn chair if you prefer to sit. The Nordic Park is located between 15^th and 16^th on Marine Drive at the entrance to downtown Astoria. 
 
Over eighty memorial candles will be lit in honor of those who are missing this Christmas season. Their names will be read during a brief ceremony of music, poetry, and song. Lou Ann Thorsness will be emcee. Pastor Steve Kienberger who has lived in Norway will explain the significance of the candles. Local poet Jim Dott will read two of his original poems on grief written especially for the occasion. Miss Scandinavia 2023 Molly Oien Lindstrom will read additional poetry and sing “Beautiful is the Earth/ Dejlig er Jorden” in Danish and English. Thorsness, Kienberger, and Dott will read the memorial names. The candles will stay lit for two hours starting at 5:30 PM so people can stroll, take photos, and experience the special lights enhancing the atmosphere of the Nordic Park at night. Bonnie Fisher of VASA Swedish Lodge Astor Lodge #215 and Beth Kandoll of Friends of Suomi Hall will supply coffee, cider, and cookies. There will be seasonal Christmas music.  
 
To have your loved one’s name be part of this ceremony and to assist the Astoria Scandinavian Heritage Association with maintenance and ongoing expenses at Astoria Nordic Heritage Park, mail the name of the individual you are honoring and a check made out to ASHA with a minimum donation of $25 per name to Light in the Darkness, ASHA, PO Box 34, Astoria OR 97103. It is also possible to donate online at www.AstoriaNordicPark.org on the Contribute page. The deadline to get names in the program and read aloud at the ceremony is 5 PM, Wednesday, December 10.