Church To Hold ‘Blue’ Worship

For those who prefer a quieter, subdued setting for worship, Windward United Church of Christ welcomes everyone to its Blue Christmas service at 6:30 p.m. Sunday at 38 Kaneohe Bay Drive. “Not everyone has a ‘holly, jolly Christmas,” stated Rev. Jayne Ryan Kuroiwa.

“Life’s difficulties — like grief, financial distress, loneliness and trauma — don’t follow a calendar, and for some people the over-the-top merriment of the season is simply too hard to take.”

The calm, reflective service will center on the lighting of four pillar candles in remembrance of those who are gone and encouragement for those who survive. Participants also have the option of lighting votive candles.

Expect poetry and scripture readings, mellow Christmas carols, live jazz and meditative prayers.

Originally a tradition in the hospice community, Blue Christmas takes place at Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, to symbolize that “dark times don’t last forever, and the future holds more light.”

For more information, call 254-3802 or email windwarducc@hawaii.rr.com. The regular Sunday service begins at 9 a.m.