The Most Wonderful Time of the Year??

It's supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year... joy and gladness at all times, but what if it just isn't?

I recently had the opportunity to eavesdrop a bit on a conversation between two strangers. They were discussing the upcoming holidays, and I listened as the one young woman explained that she thought Christmas lights were pretty and that she appreciated some elements of the holidays. However, she has never really liked the Christmas season because Christmas was never a happy memory for her. Her history and life circumstances were not ones that made the holiday season a joyous time.

This young woman is not alone. All around us are hurting individuals who are trying their best to appear joyful and content this holiday season. Some are stressed and stretched too thin. They worry about busy schedules, increased spending, and meeting expectations. Others are continuing a struggle with mental health where the holidays only magnify the feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and more. Still others are grieving the loss of a loved one, the loss of a relationship, or other significant losses. Many who are grieving simply wish they could cancel the holidays and move on to January. They are barely managing daily life filled with grief, and they often dread the extra pressures of holiday gatherings and memories of Christmases past.

If the holiday season is not the "most wonderful time of the year" for you, please know that you are not alone, and your St. Peter's family is here to help. Below are just a few of the ways that your St. Peter's family would like to care for you and help you experience true hope this Christmas.

Blue Christmas Worship Service:

Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 7:00 pm

During our Blue Christmas Worship service at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, we create a space at the foot of the cross where we can feel these very real emotions together and know that 'happiness' is not the same as hope. Indeed, the hope for us is not in ourselves, but in Jesus Christ who has forgiven and redeemed us in spite of how we feel. The lighting will be low, tissues will be in every pew, and no matter the reason why you are there, you won't need to pretend for anyone else. Join us as we experience some of these feelings together and recognize that in the body of Christ, we are never alone.

Articles to Consider:

• National Stress-Free Family Holiday Month - Tips to Reduce Holiday Stress
• Grief Share Survival Tips for Handling the Holidays

Groups to Consider:

• Grief Support Group - meets Tuesdays at 4:00 pm in the Large Conference Room
• Trauma Support Group - meets Tuesdays at 5:00 pm in Pastor Nate's office

Individual Spiritual Care:

You can also receive individual care through our Friends of Faith program, or you can meet with someone from our ministry staff. Contact Michelle Leahy or Pastor Nate to get started.