Finding Refuge

This service is designed for the longest night of the year, the Winter Solstice, and it speaks to any who are feeling lost, stressed, grieved. In this context, Rev. Erin Racine delivers the “Words of Hope,” stemming from Psalm 91, which addresses the kinds of lost-ness many are experiencing by assuring, with numerous expressions, God’s protection. Erin talks about loss, but also about the ever-present God, explaining with some examples that the vision of God’s protection is not a bargain with God such that if one worships God, God will return the favor with protection. She also uses examples to show that “protection” in this sense is not necessarily what we might consider protection, like protection from pain or illness. Rather, it is a wrapping of God’s wings around us to care for us in moving and spiritual ways. After her message, worshippers are encouraged to light candles, take communion, and pray, with the lighting of candles being a symbol of coming into the light out of the darkness of the Longest Night and of one’s suffering.