Longest Night Worship Service

Every December at The Grove UMC, we offer a Longest Night Service, sometimes referred to in other places as a Blue Christmas Service, especially for those hurting or grieving during the holiday season. “Longest Night” refers to December 21st, the longest night of the year.

As Rev. Lisa Degrenia explains in one of her blog posts (Rev. Lisa Degrenia – Modern, Moving Prayer Resources): “There are many reasons you may need a remembrance like this at this time of year. Maybe you’re mourning the death of a loved one. Maybe you’re far from home. Maybe you or someone you love is suffering from illness, addiction, or estrangement. Maybe you’re lonely, struggling financially, or in conflict with someone. Maybe you’re recovering from a storm or other natural disaster. Maybe you’re hurting because of the great pain, need, and violence in our nation and world.”

Through this service we offer a safe space to acknowledge the truth of what we may be feeling and going through this Advent season, as we pause in the midst of hurting or grieving to remember that God is good & that God is near. We remind one another through this time of lighting candles & sharing in communion that we are not alone and that we are people of hope.

You may also like the following events from The Grove - Woodbury:

• Next Saturday, 6th December, 11:00 am, Train to Be an Elf in Newport
• Next month, 14th December, 09:00 am, Christmas Concert in Newport
• Next month, 24th December, 03:00 pm, Christmas Eve at The Grove in Newport