The holiday season is a joyous one, but also carries with it much sadness for many. For some it will be the first or second Christmas without a beloved one, a spouse, child or parent, maybe a sibling or friend.

For others the holidays come with painful memories or sadness around estranged family or friends or strained relation.

For some of us holidays are difficult. With that in mind, at 7pm on Saturday evening, December 21st there will be a “Longest Night”, sometimes referred to as a “Blue Christmas” Service. It will be a time of reflection, remembrance and a place where it’s OK to not be ecstatically happy for a few moments. Far from depressing a longest night service is a time to be supported and show support for those who may struggle during the holiday season.

Please let friends you know who have lost someone dear or who might be grief groups and recovery groups know about this special service.