Each December, Plymouth's doors open for the Homeless Memorial March and Service, held in partnership with Simpson Housing Services to remember those who died over the past year while experiencing homelessness, who had been homeless earlier in their lives, or who worked on their behalf. The evening begins with a silent vigil and a march that leaves from Plymouth, loops through Loring Park, and returns to the sanctuary. Inside, the names of the dead are read aloud, one by one, alongside reflections from people who knew them. A community meal follows, served by volunteers from Plymouth and partner congregations.
The memorial has gathered hundreds of community members every year for more than four decades, and Plymouth has long been its gathering place — a role that follows plainly from what this congregation believes about the worth of every life. Everyone is welcome: neighbors, families, outreach workers, and anyone who wants to stand in the cold for an hour with people who refuse to let a death go unmarked. Names can be submitted through Simpson Housing Services ahead of the service, and the service is livestreamed for those who can't be there in person.
