'Blue Christmas' service for those struggling with sadness

What: Community Blue Christmas Service

When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21

Where: Chapel Room at Central Methodist, Spencer

By the Rev. Richard Gross

For The Salisbury Post

Truly Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but not for everyone. Christmas is the most family-oriented holiday ever. We all remember happy times growing up celebrating Christmas. Families have often developed their own traditions to be observed at Christmas. As Christians we celebrate a great hope: Jesus was born among us. God broke through the darkness by sending Jesus into the world and through him to offer mankind a purpose to live for and a power to live on. God has offered us a heavenly hope. There will be life after life.

Christmas is a time for families to share time and gifts together. A time to share special meals together.

But what if this is your first Christmas without your husband or wife? What if this is your first Christmas without your son or daughter? What if this Christmas you have received a medical report from your doctor that your life may end soon? What if this Christmas you’ve lost your job?

Christmas can be difficult even for Christians. As some one has said, “We still have clay feet.” Christians can hurt like anyone else.

We’re optimistic that God can get us through the hard times. We believe that people can help people through these times. That’s why we’re offering a special service for folks who are having a tough time this Christmas. We’re calling it a “Blue Christmas Service.”

Yes, we will sing and celebrate Christmas but also there will be testimonies of folks sharing how they have dealt with painful times at Christmas. You will be given an opportunity to share your burdens and we will pray for one another. We truly believe that God heals broken hearts. Will you join us on Wednesday night, Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. in the chapel room at Central Methodist Church in Spencer?

Call 704-633-9412 or 704-636-2152 for more information.

Spencer Council of Churches:

Pastor Carrie Bishop, Calvary Lutheran Church

Pastor Richard Gross, Oakdale Baptist Church

Pastor William Mandelstamm, Central United Methodist Church

Pastor Franklin Myers, First Baptist Church

Pastor Thomas Wyatt, Dorsett Chapel

Pastor Barrie Kirby, Spencer Presbyterian Church