[Ep 95] Blue Christmas Mini Service: Holding on to Hope in the Midst of Suffering and Loss

Today, I would like to walk with you through a mini Blue Christmas service. While many churches offer these services, traditionally held on December 21, I know that not everyone does, nor can everyone attend. And, let's be honest, sometimes we're not quite ready to name our losses in community with others yet. We're still trying to come to grips with what has happened. A Blue Christmas service is designed especially for those who have experienced loss or are suffering or lonely during the holiday season. It recognizes that not everything is "merry and bright" during Christmas. And that's okay. We can name our losses and grief before God and meet Him in that place, even as we cling to hope that Christmas brings. So this is what this episode is going to look like: I'm going to lead us through a short Blue Christmas service here on the podcast. I would really encourage you to find a quiet place where you can sit with God. It might be helpful to have a journal, to write down your own thoughts or things that you might hear from God during this time. Kari   RESOURCES: Episode 42: Offering a Blue Christmas Service to Honor the Loss and Cling to the Hope Free Resource: Blue Christmas Planning Guide Advent Resource: When Your Silent Night Feels Empty The Care Ministry Podcast episode 11: The Power of Standing with People Who Are Struggling Excerpts of prayers taken from various places; find details on the blog post for this episode Background music by Dappy T Keys (YouTube Channel) ______ >> Free Journaling Workshop: 3 Ways to Encounter God on the Pages of Your Journal http://lovedoesthat.org/journalingworkshop >> Journal Gently: An 8-week program designed to help you process grief and trauma with God http://lovedoesthat.org/journalgently (Save $30 with seasonal code LDT30.) >> Written Spiritual Direction: Recognize God's presence in your pain http://lovedoesthat.org/spiritualdirection