Advent, in all of its mystery, holds in tension the wonder and trepidation, power and vulnerability, doubt and assurance, that is the Christmas story. The Blue Christmas service seeks to bring balance to the season, admitting that along with the hurried excitement, joy, and crowds, for many come reminders of loneliness and loss. Gathering alongside one another in recognition of the pain in this world, we also proclaim our hope and our togetherness in this life.

We know the grief experienced in this season can seem unbearable, but more than that, unwelcome. It is a season of longing, a season of waiting in the silence for the cries of a child who will bring promises of peace, hope, and new life. This advent season we join together in wait for those cries of hope and promise. We join to give voice to the grief that is so often felt in silence, presence to the loneliness felt in longing, and to embrace the hope that comes in the mystery of the birth of the Christ child.

This service will be Monday, December 5, at 6:oo pm in the sanctuary with a chili supper to follow in Kelley Hall.

Colbey Sparkman is our guest speaker.