Hi Ghiagirl, i understand the sentiments. It will for me also my first year that I will not attend. Main reasons:
- I do not believe the credentials of the organsiation anymore
- the setup (intention) of the memorial is not what Jesus had intended
- the lecture during the memorial will not draw you closer to Jesus (more the opposite)
- I do not believe that their prayers are respectful to Jesus (when 2 or more gather in MY name, I will be among them). JW's do not gather in Jesus name. At least, that is what I see.
- Who do I please when I attend? My wife yes, but she is not my redeemer. Jesus? Only if I can partake respectfully, in the right ambiance. The Father? Only if the memorial setup allows me to honor His Son like I honor the Father.
Based on the above, I do not see any valid reason to attend.
You can have your own memorial with your husband (if your husband still believes, it would mean you and your husband can gather in Jesus name).
Anyway, all the best.