By EMMA BARTLETT

Councilwoman Aniece Germain will hold the second annual Candlelight Memorial Vigil commemorating those who lost their lives to Covid this Friday, March 25, at 6:30 p.m. in front of City Hall.

“The departure of our loved ones causes such emptiness in our hearts. I believe this event offers a space to grieve together and an opportunity to light a candle in honor of them, especially Cranstonians who left us too soon,” Germain said  in a March 22 press release.

Last year, Germain introduced a resolution to designate the first Monday in March as “Covid-19 Memorial Day” to hold remembrance ceremony in honor of people who have lost their lives and those who are forever marked by Covid and continue to be impacted by this pandemic. Cranston City Council unanimously passed the resolution and held the first Candlelight Memorial vigil on March 31, 2021, in remembrance of those who have died alone and buried without family and friends saying goodbye.

“It’s a funeral for those who couldn’t have one,” said Germain.

Germain, who lost a sister in 2010, knew what it was like not to not have the chance to say goodbye.

In a March 22 press release, Germain announced that “more than 967,769 people in the United States have lost their lives to COVID-19, including 3,429 people in Rhode Island.”

“The depart of our loved ones causes emptiness in our hearts, but I hope this event will offer a space to grieve together and an opportunity to lighting a candle in honor of Cranstonians who left us too soon,” Germain said.

Friday’s event will include prayer from different denominations, music and candle lighting. Germain’s goal is to create a plaque in memory of those who were victims of Covid.

“We started a tradition last year, and I hope it will continue for as long as we exist because we cannot forget,” Germain said.

Anyone who wants their loved ones listed can contact Germain at aniecegermain2@gmail.com.