An especially poignant way that Relay For Life participants and donors remember loved ones lost to cancer and honor those battling the disease is by dedicating luminaria bags.

Luminaria bags are plain white paper bags, transformed and illuminated as part of the “remembering” ceremony at Relay For Life of Manchester. In addition to the hundreds of bags that line the track at the Manchester Community Schools Athletic Complex, beginning at dusk, there are also larger luminaria spelling out HOPE on the bleachers, that are eventually changed to read CURE.

Each luminaria is personalized with a name, photo, message or drawing in memory or honor of a friend or loved one who has been affected by cancer. Luminaria can also be dedicated in support of a Relay participant. Each luminaria candle represents a person. They are our mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, friends, coworkers, and many others. During the luminaria ceremony, the names of every person honored around the track are read, while Relayers walk quietly in remembrance of who have fought the battle against cancer.

This classic white bag is a special part of the local Relay For Life. Each donor may fill out a bag in honor or memory of a loved one who has had cancer. In addition, anyone may purchase additional luminaria bags for a suggested donation of $10 apiece.

The Luminaria Ceremony occurs at every Relay For Life event. As the sun sets, luminaria lining the track light up the night. A hush falls over the crowd that had been overflowing with celebration. Relay For Life participants, survivors, and caregivers then gather to remember loved ones lost to cancer and to honor those whose fight continues.

Manchester’s Fifth Annual Relay For Life will begin at 10 a.m. on June 20 and conclude at midnight. The public is welcome to attend at any time throughout the event. Survivors and caregivers are especially invited to join us for the special luminaria event that begins at dusk (10 p.m.) that evening.