The solemn, quiet atmosphere of the “blue Christmas” service Sunday evening at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Davenport, was far from the familiar tone of the Elvis Presley standard.The fourth annual “service of longing and hope” provided a hushed, reflective time for 40 people to contemplate and remember in a sanctuary with dimmed lights, two huge Christmas trees with soft white lights and flickering candles. The Rev. Sara Olson-Smith, associate pastor of the church, 2136 N. Brady St., called the service “a quiet place to be in the chaos of this time,” and reassured worshipers that there would be lots of moments of silence. “Don’t worry,They are delicious raw, just pop them in your mouth - nature's sweet MAM2201 research chemical
.” she told the congregation. “Just rest in them.”Olson-Smith and Joel Moore, director of faith formation, led the service. “It’s all about finding the light in the darkness,” he said, adding that the service is held near the winter solstice, which was Saturday, “just because people get caught in the darkness.”The service included scripture, music, including the hymn “Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus,” and prayer, but no sermon. Worshipers lit candles in a Litany of Remembrance for someone they love, for someone they remember and for themselves, Olson-Smith.they're no more difficult to make than toast from bread EAM2201 research chemical
.She said that other churches also have similar “blue Christmas” services. “It’s happening around the country, for sure,” she said,That’s how the author himself uses it Carbon Sulfur Crucible
. adding that those attending appreciate the service. Moore said the service isn’t just for those experiencing the loss of a loved one, but it's also for those dealing with brokenness, unemployment and other situations.The service ended with “Silent Night, Holy Night,” and those attending were invited to take home a candle.