Lavonia, St. Mary’s Light Trees for Christmas

The prospect of rain Monday night did not stop Lavonia’s annual Christmas tree lighting celebration.

Lavonia’s annual tree lighting ceremony at the Gazebo on Main St. is the town’s traditional kick off to the holiday Christmas season.

Those attending were treated to live holiday music as well as hot chocolate and cookies for everyone.

Coming up Sunday is the town’s annual Christmas parade.

And over at St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital, Auxiliary members lit the annual Love Lights Christmas Tree.

Before the lighting, members of the First Baptist Lavonia Choir sang and an invocation was brought Pastor Dr. Larry Finger.

A volunteer chaplain at St. Mary’s Sacred Heart, Dr. Finger applauded the Hospital Auxiliary for their hard work.

“It’s a blessing to see the great group of Auxiliary workers we have here at this hospital,” he told the group. “When you come here, they help with hospitality and help you feel at home. The work they do is really wonderful.”

Hospital president Jeff English said gifts to the Love Lights program help patients at St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital.

“Your gifts support the mission of St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital,” English said. “The work of the Auxiliary and the generosity of our community are central to our mission. Your donations help ensure our ministry will continue to thrive.”

Funds raised by Love Lights will be used to purchase magnetic boards for patient rooms in the Emergency Department.

Each light on the tree represents a gift made to the Love Lights program.