The tree is trimmed, and Christmas carols crowd the airwaves. There are presents to wrap and cookies to bake. And wishes of a “Merry Christmas” at every turn. But for many, the holiday is hardly joyous. Whether it’s a death in the family, financial worries or the day-to-day stresses of contemporary American life, Christmas can evoke in many a profound sense of sadness.
That reality is drawing the attention of faith leaders, more of whom are beginning to offer “Blue Christmas” services, liturgies intended to acknowledge personal pain in what is touted to be “the most wonderful time of the year.”