There are many people for whom Christmas is not a whole load of fun.
They may be grieving the loss of a dear one or the loss of a job. They may be feeling unwell or lonely. Those Christmas ads with happy people, with tables overflowing with food, or joyfully opening gifts just remind us repeatedly of what seems to be missing in their version of Christmas.
If you have experienced loss, the joy of the holiday season can often feel elusive and out of reach. St John’s Episcopal Church invites you to come to a different kind of Christmas service, one that acknowledges that life is complicated and difficult. A Christmas service that recognises that sometimes we live in a world that feels weary.
You are invited to bring your grief, your weariness and your fatigue. Do not feel pressured to leave them at the door or to put on a merry mask. St John’s Episcopal church is not an expert in mental health, nor are we promising miraculous cures. Instead, the folk of St John’s are offering a few moments of calm, quiet, and perhaps healing in a busy time. This is an offering of a quiet space to reflect and draw near to God and to be yourself.
If you would like to join us for a service for a weary world, then please come to St John’s Episcopal Church on Thursday 19 December at 6.30pm. It’s above the library on North Shore St, and there’s a lift to get upstairs, if you need it.
Even if it is too difficult to join the service, thank you for reading this wee article. Know that you are not forgotten, and that we will pray for all who feel lost this Christmas.
Rev Dr Elizabeth Breakey, www.stjohnsstranraer.co.uk