In a year when most events and celebrations have had to be cancelled, it is heartwarming to see that the Circle of Hope’s Luminary Night will continue for its 19th year. This endearing Norwood event will be held on Saturday, December 5, 4-6 p.m., on Norwood's Town Common. The evening will have a few changes, but most importantly, the ceremony will still be available to commemorate a remembrance for a loved one.
For everyone’s safety, luminaries will not be available for purchase the night of the event. Residents can buy a luminary prior to the event for $5 by sending a payment to: COH, P.O. Box 421, Norwood, MA 02062. You can also include a brief message of life, hope, and/or a name to honor a friend, family member, or pet.
All residents are invited to the Town Gazebo to honor these lost Norwood neighbors and to support Norwood's compassionate community, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. It is a magnificent sight to stroll through the Town Common with its radiating walkways and read the touching engraving of an individual name, message, prayer or date as a symbol of Life, Hope, the Season or in Remembrance of others. Anyone attending is asked to wear a mask and practice social distancing.  

Last year, over 2,250 luminaries ‘lit up’ the Town Common generating an incredible glow of encouragement for the community. The fundraiser generated over $10,000 for the Circle of Hope foundation.
"When it's done, it is absolutely beautiful," Circle of Hope member Lee Kennedy said. "It's very moving to see these candles and know that every one represents a person, prayer or event."
The Circle of Hope foundation was established in 1998 in memory of Norwood resident Michelle Kennedy, who suffered from leukemia. Norwood residents united during her battle, many who did not even know her personally. The Circle of Hope established in her memory preserves that community spirit by donating fundraising proceeds to Norwood families who need assistance due to a catastrophic medical illness. To date, the COH has provided over $885,000 Norwood residents.
"The people of Norwood who support us are the actual Circle of Hope," Kennedy said. "We do the fundraising and the people who support us allow us to do what we do."
Even residents not directly involved in the evening make a special trip to Norwood's Town Common to view this spectacular site and take a moment to remember someone close to them. This is an evening of communal celebration that truly delivers the spirit of the holidays.