For many of us, the holidays may not feel so joyous. There are many things happening in the world that cause grief, worry, sadness and pain. This is a time when many of us feel existential worry, questioning the meaning and purpose of just about everything.

Many of us have also had personal losses and challenges that make this time of year hard. Some have experienced financial hardship that makes the holiday generosity challenging. Others of us are facing the holidays without loved ones.

This holiday season, I invite you to acknowledge all the feelings you may have. Look for moments of beauty and joy, for those do exist. And notice whatever else may be present.

In 2020, Rev. Carol McKinley, Rev. Eric Ness and I offered a Blue Christmas vespers service to acknowledge the complexity of this time. It is a service of music, reflection, candlelight and silence.

We’ve attached the link to that service for you to access again this year:

Rev. Mary

P.S. If you are an Elvis fan, check out this animated version of “Blue Christmas” and keep an eye out for the Zoom call: