Coral Isles Church will host its third annual Blue Christmas Service for the community on Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. to provide a worship service for those whose suffering outweighs the joy that permeates the holiday season.
The Christmas season is not necessarily happy for everyone. Fear, anxiety, grief, pain and loss of any kind can lend itself to sadness, disappointment and, at times, deep despair. A Blue Christmas service is designed to hold space for those who are hurting, so they need not suffer in silence or alone.
The ecumenical service, which includes scripture, music and prayers, is quiet and contemplative but not morose.
Rev. Dr. Pam Feeser, who will lead the service, notes that “Many people have feelings of depression over the holidays. People may be grieving over the loss of a loved one, struggling with illness, or having experienced the loss of a job. They wonder how to get through the holidays.”
The pastor at Coral Isles Church, Rev. Dr. Bruce Havens, reflects that, “Not everybody wants to go home at Christmas. We hope this service gives participants a place to find Christmas in a way that is meaningful to them.”
Coral Isles Church is located at MM 90, oceanside in Islamorada. All are welcome to attend. Light refreshments will follow.
For more information, contact Barbara Overton at 305-333-0950.
