Making Christmas a little less blue

Winter Solstice a time of healing and reflection for many

Anyone feeling alone this Christmas can mark the longest night of the year at St. David’s United Church Thursday evening.

While Christmas is a joyful time for many, the season can be difficult for those who are far from home, estranged from family members or grieving the loss of a loved one. Other challenges may include job loss, homelessness, illness, a romantic break-up or divorce, or just finding the hectic pace and stress of the holiday period too much to handle.

“Much of the time we ignore the things that hurt; it is easier to be busy, to keep on moving, to put on our happy face and go along, as though everything is okay,” said Carolyn Terry, office administrator for St. David’s United Church. “The winter solstice brings with it the year’s longest stretch of darkness and seems a fitting time to host what is commonly known as a ‘Blue Christmas Service,’ more commonly referred to now as the ‘Longest Night of the Year Service.’”

Terry said the Longest Night service is open to anyone who wishes to drop by and “just be.”

People can enjoy a service of gentle seasonal hymns, scripture, candle lighting, prayer and reflection, all attuned to tranquility, peace and bringing comfort to people.

“An opportunity to tie ribbons of hope on our tree will be available for anyone wishing to do so,” said Terry. “There are no expectations of anyone, come and find the peace. It is a very personal thing for most who attend and everyone is free to come on their own, or with friends or family, completely non-judgmental as to why they are present.”

Worldwide, the Winter Solstice is marked by many cultures celebrating the rebirth of the sun, as the days start growing longer.

The Longest Night service at St. David’s United Church begins at 7 p.m., this evening, Dec. 20.

For updates, visit St. David’s United Church’s Facebook page.