Dear Caldwell,
A few years ago, a sister Presbyterian church in Atlanta struck upon an important truth about the holidays – these days are not always full of cheer and glad tidings. From that, the new tradition of having a “Blue Christmas” service was born and has spread quickly across the nation and across denominations.
The Blue Christmas service recognizes that the holidays can bring their own kind of sadness for some – perhaps from reminders of lost loved ones, perhaps from loneliness, perhaps from just being worn down by life’s difficulties. In the service, we will acknowledge our struggles, lift them up to God and call on the Lord as our source of strength and, most important, hope. Veronica and I will lead this intimate service this comigng Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall.
All are welcomed – whether you are struggling with the holidays personally, you come to remember a loved one or to worship in solidarity with others.
A few pastoral updates: We join the family of member Elise Hood, whom we laid to rest on Tuesday, in finding comfort in the assurance of the resurrection. Marie Mancinelli is preparing for out-patient surgery tomorrow. Amy Magas is mourning the loss last weekend of her grandmother, Jody Olson of Ohio. We pray for Peg Robarchek and her brother, who has been diagnosed with cancer. Maggie Devries’ daughter, Carla, is recovering after being hospitalized. Leroy Stinson is expecting a new grandchild any moment now and Jimmy Todd is feeling better, thanks in part to a machine that helps him exhale carbon dioxide.
Yours in Christ,
John