Hoffman Estates Church to host Blue Christmas Service Dec. 8

A Blue Christmas service will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8, at Church of the Cross in Hoffman Estates. The service will also be livestreamed on Facebook.

The Christmas Season is not always a 'Holly Jolly Christmas.' Many people

come to dread this time of year because of the pain they are experiencing.

It may be the first Christmas without a loved family member who has recently

died or simply a time which has always been difficult. Maybe it is the anguish of broken relationships, the insecurity of unemployment, the weariness of ill health,

the pain of isolation has drained one's ability to feel the joy of the season.

Whatever it is, the constant refrain on the radio or television or in shopping malls about the happiness of the season, reminds many people of what they have lost or have never had and can make us feel very alone in the midst of the celebrating

and spending.

We all need space and time to acknowledge our sadness or grief or other concerns; to experience community holding us, praying for us, reminding us we are not alone.

You are invited to join us in person or online as we gather for a time of prayer, scripture, and music guiding us to feel the truth of how God comes to shine light into our darkness. This service is created especially for those who are far too familiar with the deep difficulties of life.

For information visit Church of the Cross's website at www.churchofthecross.online