Paris, Tenn.–Elvis sang about it – feeling blue! Yes, blue as in The Blues. Not everyone feels energized and cheery for the Christmas holidays. Dealing with the death of someone dear to us; facing life after a break up; coping with the stresses of school, work and family; living with depression or cancer or some other dis-ease or situation that puts a question mark over the future can make holiday celebrations painful for many of us.
In an effort to be attentive to the needs of those who are feeling “blue” this Christmas, at 5:30 on Thursday, December 21st, which is the Winter Solstice – the longest night of the year, Paris First United Methodist is offering a sacred space for anyone in our community who may be living through dark times, to gather for a time for reflection, with music, readings and the lighting of candles of remembrance for any seeking healing and hope.
Please pass the word, if you know of someone who might be going through a difficult time and would appreciate the invitation to experience the hope of Christmas in a way that acknowledges some of the painful realities of our lives.
Photo by Shannon McFarlin.