FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH TO HOST SPECIAL CHRISTMAS SERVICE

Because Christmas can be a painful time for some, First Congregational Church of Portland will offer a special “Blue Christmas” service on Monday, December 17 at 6:30 pm.

The service, led by Pastor April Barrett, is open to all, regardless of religious background or lack of it. The church is located at 431 E. Bridge St. in Portland, two blocks east of downtown.

Christmas can be a painful time for some. The constant refrain on the radio and television, in shopping malls and churches, about the season’s happiness and getting together with loved ones, reminds them of what they have lost or never had.

This may be the first Christmas without a loved one who recently passed away or died years ago. The anguish of broken relationships, the insecurity of unemployment, the weariness of ill health, or the pain of isolation can make us feel alone in the midst of the celebrating and spending.

We need encouragement to live in the days ahead. Through prayer, scripture and music, we will share how God’s presence and His Word come to shine light into our darkness.