Camp Erin Luminary Ceremony

Camp Erin Los Angeles Partners

On the Last night of every Camp Erin around the world, children are given the opportunity to create a luminary to say goodbye to their loved ones. They can draw photos, write poems, or even write a letter to their lost loved one. There is no right or wrong way to do this.

A flameless candle is then inserted into the luminary and it is floated into the pool, one by one. Each child is given the chance to speak in front of the entire camp before placing their luminary into the water. They are able to say the name of the person they lost, how they lost them, and if there is anything they want them to know.

This is such a moving and emotional ceremony not only for the campers but for everyone involved. My fellow Cabin Buddy handed me tissues before the ceremony began because by the end, everybody is crying. The children can take the luminaries home the next day and have them to keep and remember forever.

Ignite your spark,

Samantha Riddle
Miss International 2014