First Lutheran Church Holds Blue Christmas Service

It's not all good tidings and holiday cheer, some are still struggling with loss and grief

DULUTH, Minn. — The holiday season can be difficult for those experiencing loss and Duluth’s First Lutheran Church wants to acknowledge this.

Last night, First Lutheran had a Blue Christmas service, a Western Christian tradition. Blue Christmas services are held around the Winter Solstice and comfort those struggling during an otherwise joyful time. Pastor Dianne Loufman emphasized the importance of community during the service.

“Some of us carry with us grief or loneliness,” Loufman said. “Some of us are dealing with new loses, new realities, new news to absorb. Some of us are warn out or overwhelmed by all there is to do, by all that is happening in the world and our home lives. This service is for you.”

Those in attendance wrote prayer cards and lit candles to remember loved ones who had passed away.