Something Special in the Air: A Night of Light, Hope and Joy
There was something unmistakably special in the air the evening our community gathered for the 2025 Celebration of Lights. Presented by the VMRC Foundation, the program celebrates the light of those who have gone before us, the light of family and friends, and the light of Christ, which guides us. Words, both spoken and sung, created a palpable feeling of energy, inspiration and joy for audience members.
This cherished annual tradition began with a piano prelude performed by David Berry, Associate Professor of Music and Chair of the Music Department at Eastern Mennonite University. Joe Hackman, Chief Philanthropy Officer at VMRC, opened the occasion with warm, welcoming words and introduced the Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir (SVCC), whose members would take the stage and hearts of audience members.
The SVCC members performed powerfully. Led by Janet Hostetter, D.M.A., Artistic and Executive Director of this regional musical troupe, their a cappella tones left notes dancing gently around us that remained long after the final refrain. For one musical number, choristers were supported by the impressive beatboxing (vocal percussion) skills of one of their young singers. Watch their performance here.
Skyler Wampler, VMRC Executive Assistant, provided a poetry reading entitled “There Will Be Rest” by Sara Teasdale, a perfect work to follow the musical performance. Kristin Jackson, Chief Operating Officer at VMRC, reminded the audience of Jesus’ divine essence — the eternal word — through her reading of John 1:1-5.
Each presentation built upon the previous one, offering a spirited, well-rounded evening of remembrance. A meditation shared by EMU Interim President Shannon Dycus helped us enter the Season of Advent with a renewed awareness of how God’s love breaks through in our daily lives. She reminded us that we are made of the stardust, the light that shines in the night sky and guides us through the darkness.
As the service concluded, attendees stepped out into a grand illumination. Soft lights, much like stars, draped the Oak Lea, Park Gables and Wellness Center exteriors and ushered attendees to a wonderful buffet for the evening.
The experience reinforced that the light we celebrate is not only around us, but within us. And when we gather together — residents, families, friends, colleagues — that light shines even brighter.
The Celebration of Lights program is part of VMRC’s annual, year-end fundraiser to garner support for the Compassion Care Fund.
