Wheaton church offers a ‘Longest Night’ service Dec. 21

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 be at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, in the church’s sanctuary, 224 N. Main St. It also will be 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.

The church offers music, kids, youth and adult ministries, plus opportunities for local, national and global missions. Worship is at 9 and 11:11 a.m. Sundays. In between services, there’s Sunday school for all ages, a coffee fellowship hour, plus the chapel is available for prayer and reflection.

On Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, Gary Church offers a family service at 4 p.m., traditional candlelight service at 7 p.m., and candlelight service with Communion at 9 p.m. For more information, go to garychurch.org or contact the church office at office@garychurch.org.