Attendees of the Marquette County Bells for Hospice event sing “Amazing Grace” together at noon on Monday at the downtown Marquette Commons. (Journal photo by Katie Segula)

MARQUETTE — Hand bells sounded in unison with local church bells at noon Monday to honor those who have died under the care of hospice and to pay respect to their loved ones.

U.P. Home Health & Hospice partnered with Lake Superior Life Care & Hospice at the Marquette Commons to conduct the annual Marquette County Bells for Hospice event.

Organizers of MCBH, Trillium Hospice House officials, volunteers and other attendees joined together with an assortment of bells for each participant to ring in unison with the sounding of noon church bells.

CEO of Lake Superior Life Care & Hospice Jennifer Voetgline welcomed the kickoff of National Hospice and Palliative Care Month and introduced Pastor Warren Geier of Ishpeming’s Bethany Lutheran Church to lead the group in prayer and share All Saints Day.

The group then had the traditional bell-ringing ceremony, which was done virtually last year due to COVID-19.

By giving attendees a chance to take time to honor and remember those who have passed under hospice care, the event aims to provide comfort and support for those who have lost a loved one.

The group then sang “Amazing Grace” and reconvened indoors for fellowship and refreshments.

Katie Segula can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 242. Her email address is ksegula@miningjournal.net.