Perhaps it sounds counterintuitive to the season, but Rev. Donald Ford at Methow Valley United Methodist Church believes there is solace and comfort to be found in what he is calling a “Blue Christmas” service at the church on Dec. 21.
The church will open its doors to anyone in the community who wants to take part in the service, which will take place on the shortest day of the year. The service begins at 6 p.m. and ends “when the last person is able to leave the peacefulness of the church and venture back into the world of gaiety,” Ford said in an email message.
“For some, Christmas is a reminder that they are alone and not able to enjoy the atmosphere that surrounds the season,” Ford said. “For others, sometimes difficult decisions must be made between presents for their children and paying the rent. Still others may feel that they are left out and not invited to the parties and gatherings. Many people suffer during this season.
“The ‘Blue Christmas’ service is about validating a person’s feelings,” Ford said. “It is about a process of overcoming the hurt by knowing that one is not alone, that there are others struggling with Christmas.
This year because of the fire and flood, it might be even more ‘blue’ for some folks who have lost some things or everything.”
The church is at 193A Old Twisp Highway. For more information, call 997-9292.
