Blue Christmas 12/19

Blue Christmas (also called the Longest Night) is a day during the Advent season marking the longest night of the year. On this day, church services honor people who have lost loved ones and are experiencing grief. This worship service is traditionally held on or around the longest night of the year, which falls on or about December 21, the Winter Solstice. There is an interesting convergence for this day is also the traditional feast day for Saint Thomas the Apostle. This link invites making a connection between Saint Thomas’ struggle to believe in Jesus’ resurrection, the long nights just before Christmas, and the struggle with darkness and grief faced by those loving with loss.
 
The worship service often includes opportunities for expression of grief and pain as well as an opportunity to focus on the promise of hope. Candles are lit during the service; empty chairs are reserved as a way of commemorating those who have died during the year. The service will include prayers, poems, words of hope and music.
 
Pastors Leah and David will be leading the Blue Christmas Service on Sunday, December 19 at 5pm. All are welcomed to attend.