St John’s Hospice has announced plans for its fourth annual Light up a Life Ceremony, taking place on Wednesday 2 December.
The fundraising event will be held at Alder Grove Church in Balby from 6pm and will feature carols, readings and musical performances in a moving evening of remembrance and reflection.
St John’s Hospice Fundraising Manager Jenny Baynham said:
“Light up a Life is a nationwide campaign run by hospices across the country, giving families and friends the opportunity to come together to remember and celebrate loved ones who are no longer with us.
“This is the fourth year we have held our event in Doncaster, and we are delighted that it has become a meaningful tradition for so many people. Our aim is to provide comfort, reflection and a sense of community as we gather around our Tree of Lights.”
The ceremony is open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one, whether or not they received care from St John’s Hospice.
Those wishing to dedicate a light can make a donation in memory of their loved one. Each light will shine throughout the Christmas period on the Hospice’s Tree of Lights, serving as a lasting tribute.
Everyone who sponsors a light will receive a St John’s Hospice Light up a Life decoration to personalise with a special dedication. During the service, attendees will have the opportunity to hang their decoration on the Tree of Lights and will also receive a second decoration to take home and display on their own Christmas tree.
Refreshments and hot snacks will be available to purchase before and after the ceremony.
Jenny added:
“We would love to welcome people to this year’s event and support them in remembering those who mean so much to them.
“Every donation made through Light up a Life helps us continue providing exceptional end-of-life care and support to patients and families across our local community.”
St John’s Hospice relies on charitable donations to fund around 20% of its running costs and must raise more than £680,000 each year to continue delivering specialist palliative and end-of-life care.
For more information and to register, visit our Light up a Life event page.
Published: September 04, 2026