'Longest Night' service offered Dec. 21 at Wheaton church

Gary United Methodist Church in Wheaton recognizes that the holidays are not always a time of joy and cheer, and that this year may be particularly difficult for many people experiencing isolation, illness and loss.

The "Longest Night" service will begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 21, in the church's sanctuary, plus livestreamed and recorded at garychurch.org.

Traditionally held on the winter solstice, the longest night of the year, this service will provide a time to remember loved ones, share hurting places with God or simply step aside from the stresses of the season.

Gary United Methodist Church in Wheaton is also offering three Christmas Eve opportunities. Enjoy a children's telling of the birth of Jesus at the 3 p.m. family worship service. Celebrate through scripture, sermon, prayer and music at the 8 p.m. traditional Christmas Eve worship service. And, bundle up, light a candle and sing "Silent Night" outside with the Carillon at 9 p.m.

Gary Church, 224 N. Main St. in Wheaton, offers a 9 a.m. Sunday service in the sanctuary, complete with Kids' Church, plus livestreaming and recorded worship at garychurch.org.

After the worship service, you can enjoy Sunday School for all ages, plus a coffee hour called "Special Blend."

Gary Church has vibrant music, kids, youth and adult ministries, plus opportunities for local, national and global missions.

For more information, go to garychurch.org or contact the church office at office@garychurch.org.