Waco, Texas’s Tree of Angels holiday tradition fosters healing and remembrance [Video]

WACO, Texas — A sense of unity and remembrance filled Knox Hall in Waco Tuesday evening as families and friends gathered for the annual Tree of Angels ceremony, honoring victims of violent crimes. 

Hosted by the Waco Police Department and the Crime Victim’s Coalition of McLennan County, the event brought the community together for a solemn yet hopeful tradition.

“We look forward to this event every year because it’s a time for us to honor our loved ones,” said Claire Bradburn, who lost her two sons to violence nearly 40 years ago. “It reminds us that we’re not alone in our grief.”

For 12 years, the Tree of Angels has been a space where attendees can reflect, grieve and heal during the holiday season. Participants were invited to bring angel ornaments to place …