On August 26th, Our Lady of Peace Hospice (OLP) staff released 200 Monarch butterflies in memory of those who have passed in our care. The butterflies were released between rain clouds this year, due to storms forecasted for the original time of the event. The annual Butterfly Release Memorial Celebration typically brings OLP families and friends to our hospice home to remember their loved one, and reconnect with our staff, volunteers and each other.
A lot of people believe that these beautiful creatures represent the souls of those who have recently departed from the mortal world. Many cultures have documented Monarch butterflies as being a sign from a guardian angel. They are looked upon as a spiritual symbol of life after death because of their metamorphosis from a caterpillar to a colorful creation that flies through the air. Therefore, they bring comfort to people who are grieving the loss of a loved one. This may explain why some of the butterflies remained in the OLP courtyard to feast on watermelon and enjoy the flowers. Psyche, or “soul” is the Greek word for butterfly and Greek mythology makes a connection between butterflies and human souls.
The Butterfly Release and Celebration was videotaped and is available for viewing at ourladyofpeacemn.org/butterfly.