It’s no secret that many folks feel depressed this time of year.  Reasons are varied—Seasonal Affective Disorder, remembering departed loved ones–but it’s clear to me from conversations that some feel weighed down by expectations of the season.  External, culturally-conditioned pressures—gift-buying, party-attending, meal-preparing—are compounded by internal expectations of the “perfect” Christmas experience, whatever that might mean.

Whatever the reason, some faith communities have responded by acknowledging through worship a “blue Christmas,” often on the longest, darkest night of the year.  One of our sister congregations, Columbia City Church of Hope, this Friday offers a “Longest Night” service at 7:00 pm.  If “Advent Blue” for you is more than a seasonal color, you might consider joining others to remember that even though we might not see or feel it, something is shifting and we are about to begin returning to the light.