Natick Vigil for Those Lost to Addiction

Chief James Hicks and the Natick Police Department invite residents to attend a Community Vigil this weekend to remember those who have lost their lives to addiction on Sunday, Dec. 20, from 7-8 p.m. at First Congregational Church at 2 East Central St.

“We know the holidays can be an especially difficult time for some of our residents,” Chief Hicks said in a statement. “Together we will honor the lives of our loved ones that were lost to drug or alcohol addiction. Those struggling with addiction should know they are not alone in this fight. The Natick Police Department is committed to assisting all those in need get the assistance they require to recover.”

The vigil starts with a candlelit walk around the Natick Common to remember the lives lost and to affirm a commitment among citizens to work toward healing.

Natick police Lt. Cara Rossi-Cafarelli speaks briefly about the support the community has from police in combating the state’s opioid epidemic.

“Our focus is getting people the help they need, as we know arresting our way out of this problem will not be successful,” Lt. Rossi-Cafarelli said in the announcement. “We do not discriminate or judge and we understand that this disease can affect anyone. We are here to support and guide our residents.”

As part of the ceremony, there will be music, testimonies, inspirational speeches and an interfaith prayer led by the Natick clergy. Light refreshments will be served from 8-8:30 p.m.

The evening is sponsored by the Natick Interfaith Clergy, Natick Together for Youth, SPARK Kindness and the Natick Public Schools.

The following will be present at the vigil: 

• Lt. Cara Rossi-Cafarelli - Natick Police Department
• Matt Ganem, poet in recovery
• Christine Guthery, President of SPARK Kindness
• Pastor Victoria Guest, First Congregational Church
• Representatives of the Natick Interfaith Clergy
• Katie Sugarman, Executive Director of Natick Together for Youth