“Peace on Earth, Peace at Home” was the theme of the 2017 Giant Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at the MLK Government Center, hosted Tuesday, Dec. 5 by the Mayor’s Interfaith Advisory Council.
“Peace is the greatest gift we can have during this holiday season,” Mayor Eric Papenfuse told those gathered in the atrium for the annual celebration. “But peace must begin in our own hearts, in our own homes and in our own neighborhoods.”
Giant Foods provided refreshments for the event, and Samantha Kreps, Manager, Public and Community Relations GIANT Food Stores/MARTIN’S Food Markets, offered words of inspiration for the holiday season.

Mayor Papenfuse and Members of his Interfaith Advisory Council at 2017 Giant Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in the MLK Government Center.

Rev. Manny Valentin, of Derry Street United Methodist Church, provided musical inspiration.