Not every Christmas is filled with holly and jolly. Each year, millions of people approach the holiday with immense burdens, quietly unable to muster the cheer that the holiday season inspires. For many, this Christmas will be their first holiday after the death of a family member, or their first holiday on chemotherapy treatments. For others, it will be the first Christmas after the divorce, or a Christmas after losing a job.
Sleigh rides and silver bells are fun, but for anybody truly struggling during the darkest part of the year, something bigger is needed. Or, more accurately, for those who are struggling this holiday season, we need someone smaller.
All are invited to join Epiphany on Sunday, December 17th, at 6:00 PM, for a Blue Christmas service. A Blue Christmas service is a Christmas service of worship set aside to acknowledge that, sometimes, the holidays are not filled with joy. The service focuses on the theme of hope, and offers a specific word of Christian comfort for those who need something more than elves and Hallmark Channel specials.
What can you expect at a Blue Christmas service? There will be Bible readings and familiar songs focused on the theme of hope. There will be a homily and a time of prayer for those who are struggling for any reason during the holiday season. Communion will be available to all baptized Christians and blessings for those who are not baptized. At the end of the service, individual prayer and anointing will be available to anyone with a specific pastoral need.
If you or someone you know is facing hardship or difficulty this Christmas, please join us on Sunday, December 17th, at 6:00 PM. We would love to greet you warmly, say prayers with you, and celebrate the arrival of Jesus together.
