WAKEENEY – The Christmas season can be a painful time for some. It may be the first Christmas after a big life change such as a lost job, a broken relationship or the recent death of a loved family member or friend. A person may be experiencing the weariness of poor health, the pain of isolation or loneliness or feel overcome by anxiety or depression—or perhaps it is a time that has always been difficult for other reasons. Even those who are not struggling with losses may feel the stress of preparations and expectations around Christmas time. These situations can make us feel very alone in the midst of the celebrating and spending going on around us.

Our spirits sink as the days grow shorter. We feel the darkness growing deeper around us. We need a place to come together to share grief, sadness, loneliness or confusion when these emotions often feel out of place during the holidays.

For these reasons, Prairie Faith Parish Nurse Ministry offers a special “Longest Night” worship service on December 21—the winter solstice and the longest night of the year. The service will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 338 North 7th Street in WaKeeney and will last approximately one hour.

Come and join in prayer, scripture and music that acknowledge that God’s presence is for those who mourn, for those who struggle,and that God’s Word comes to shine light into our darkness. This service is non-denominational, and everyone is welcome, whether they attend a church or not.

The service will be followed by an opportunity for private prayer or meditation in the sanctuary. Healthy refreshments will be served for those wishing to stay and visit afterward. Please feel free to email [email protected] or call the church office at 785-743-2005 with any questions or concerns.

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