by SARAH THOMACK

St. Joseph Post

A tree lighting will take place Tuesday evening as a way for the community to remember victims of crime and pay tribute to those family members and friends. 

Paralegal with the Buchanan County Prosecutor’s Office Jenn Moden said the Victim Memorial Tree Lighting is an annual event the Prosecutor’s Office has held for many years. 

“It’s just really important to bring the community together and honor the victims that we have lost, just an excellent opportunity to pay tribute to those family members or even friends that were taken too soon,” Moden said. “It has a huge impact on our community members…It’s just really a great time, during the holidays, to come together… just be supportive of each other, make a new friend. Our community is going through so much right now.… it’s just an excellent opportunity to come and get into the holiday spirit.” 

Anyone attending is invited to bring an ornament to place on the tree in memory of a loved one. Moden said the event will also include speakers and music.

The Victim Memorial Tree Lighting takes place at 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21, outside on the north side of the courthouse at 411 Jules Street in St. Joseph.