Office manager Carrie Stucky estimated this to be the event’s largest turnout in years, although only one family was there because they’d lost loved ones in the March 22 Oso slide.

“We were glad that we were able to be there for all of those who attended,” Stucky said. “We try to make sure that people know we’re a support system for them, and that we’re here for them during difficult times. We understand that this time of year can be difficult, and we’re happy to be able to provide a place of comfort for those dealing with grief this holiday season.”

Steve Schertzinger, volunteer chaplain for the Marysville Police Department, joined Pastor Bryce McFadden of the Smokey Point Community Church in addressing attendees.

“We’re fellow travelers, even if we don’t know each other,” Schertzinger said. “While others are buying gifts for their loved ones, we have one less gift to buy this year.”

Schertzinger acknowledged that, even 22 years after his mother’s death, the pain has lessened, but has not gone away.

“What I would ask you to do, though, is not count your losses, but celebrate what you gained by having your loved one in you life,” Schertzinger said. “Recall the scene from their lives that put smiles on our lips.”

McFadden credited attendees with putting in work to process their grief, whether it’s fresh or less recent. He noted that, for some, simply walking into the building was an intimidating prospect, so he pledged that the afternoon’s gathering would serve as a safe space for their mourning.

While McFadden encouraged them to ask God for help in healing their hearts, he also provided practical steps for them to help themselves, which he summed up in four words: choose, change, cherish and charge.

“With so many demands and expectations placed on us by others during the holiday season, we should choose what we want to do, and who we want to spend time with,” McFadden said. “Don’t ask your family’s permission, but inform them of your decisions.”

McFadden likewise suggested changing up old family traditions, whether it’s opening presents at a different time, having dinner at a different place, or streamlining your holiday shopping to simplify your schedule.

“You can start new traditions this year,” McFadden said. “And you can still cherish your lost loved ones. A lot of times, people think that if they don’t talk about their pain, they won’t feel it, but all that means is that you’re all alone as you feel your pain. You can cook their favorite dishes or listen to their favorite music to remember them.”

The “charge” in McFadden’s advice stood for “charge up your batteries.” He urged those who have lost loved ones to eat well, get plenty of rest and exercise, and avoid self-medicating, because “grief work is exhausting, so you need your health and your strength.”

The gathering included musical performances by Peach Ice on vocals and Jackie Fuller on piano, and an Honor Guard presentation of the U.S. flag to the family of James Stephenson.