The community on Friday, April 22 will have an opportunity to show its support for anyone affected by cancer.
Luminaries on the Square will be from 6-9 p.m. at Heritage Square in downtown Taylor.
The event is free, including picking up a luminaria — a small candle in a paper bag as a tribute to anyone who has struggled with the disease. A remembrance walk and speakers also are scheduled.
“This event is to celebrate with survivors and caregivers. And, to encourage those that are still in the battle,” said Anne Wentrcek, president of New Century Club, the host of the event. “To support those who have lost loved ones. We’ve all been affected.”
The organization’s mission is to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. There will be boxes for anyone making a donation.
After Relay for Life moved out of Taylor, New Century Club sought another way to raise funds to win the campaign to stamp out cancer.
Wentrcek arrived at the idea of using luminarias as a symbolic gesture.
“God put it on my heart. He said, ‘Why not bring back this part of Relay (For Life) — the luminaria part,’” she said.
In addition to honoring and recognizing those who have defeated, lost their battle or are still fighting the illness, the event showcases the community’s continuing support.
“I just want our people that are going through it and grieving through it to know they are not alone. We have a community that stands with them,” Wentrcek said.
During the event, Heritage Square will be lined with luminarias. Survivors and caregivers will have an opportunity to speak at the event.
Live entertainment will include singer Major Smith from Austin, The First Baptist Church (Robinson Street) choir and music by John Youngblood.
The luminaria service will be a walk around Heritage Square led by survivors to remember those who lost their cancer struggle.
Scott Morales Catering will have food available in the park.
“This is a way of sharing and encouragement,” Wentrcek said. “Cancer doesn’t distinguish between cultures, your financial conditions. It attacks and it’s vicious. When Jerry (her husband) died, it was a blessing to me to have that support to grieve with. We’ve walked it together, and I can be a support to them.”
