"For many of us the sparkle, cheer, and brightness of this season grate against our raw and grieving places, where hope feels distant. Illness, aging, depression, loneliness,
unemployment, and loss are magnified. Even those who are not struggling with immediate losses are feeling the stress and trauma of this strange pandemic time. Tonight, we come together seeking healing and room to be present to our grief,
sadness, loneliness, or confusion when these emotions often feel out of place during the holidays.
In the Northern Hemisphere, December 21 is the longest night, the winter solstice. It marks the shortest day of the year, the official start of winter. Tradition says that nature and all her creatures stop and hold their breath to see if the sun will turn back from its wanderings, if the days will lengthen and the earth will once again feel the sun’s warmth. On this darkest day of the year, we come with our honest yearnings seeking
the return of light and hope." from the Longest Night bulletin introduction
We give thanks for this time of worship provided by the Southwestern Texas Synod. May it provide a space to name your longings and laments, to prepare for the promise of new life.