As we come to the end of November, our thoughts turn to Advent and the festivities that follow. The Christmas season is often associated with joy and celebration, but for some, it can be a very challenging time.
Many churches now hold services or share resources for "Blue Christmas", which is all about acknowledging those feelings and offering support to those who might be struggling.
What is a Blue Christmas service?
A Blue Christmas service is all about creating a comforting space for people who might find this time of year challenging for various reasons. It’s a chance to reflect, remember, and find a bit of peace. Whenever you choose to hold a service, or perhaps choose to raise awareness in other ways, Blue Christmas is a useful reminder to support those who find Advent and Christmas particularly hard.
Kimberley Tyler, Locally Authorised Minister at St Denys Church in Evington - where they will be holding two Blue Christmas services this year – said: “As we approach this Advent season, it’s easy to get caught up in how we ‘should be feeling’ during the festive season. If we look on social media, it’s all full of happiness and you can be forgiven for thinking that everyone else’s lives are all rosy. The reality is that people only post what they want to be seen, which is not always a true reflection.
“This time of year is especially difficult for some of us, as we remember loved ones, have painful memories, money worries, etc. It was for this reason that we decided to organise two ‘Blue Christmas’ events to give us, and the community, an opportunity to spend some quiet time away from the busyness of Christmas and to mark the season quietly by lighting a candle and spending time in the comfort of St Denys. You are all very welcome to attend on Saturday 6 or Saturday 20 December, between 10am and 12 noon.”
You can find more information, tips and resources for Blue Christmas here.