By Jennifer Theurer

The Clay Center United Methodist Church is offering a Blue Christmas service for those feeling a sense of sadness this time of year. Church Coordinator Marabeth Conner said this service is for those facing losses of all types and may be finding the holiday to be difficult.

“It’s just a time where you can just be and you don’t have to put a smile on your face,” she said, “if that’s not how you’re feeling that day.”

The feel of this service is subdued with low lighting, quiet music, special readings, and a short message from Pastor Reuben Langat. There is also a time when everyone is invited to the altar for prayer and to light a candle in memory of a loved one.

“We really hope that people that attend this service will take with them the idea that God is there for them no matter what they’re going through,” Connor said. “And even during what seems to be happy times, sometimes our emotions are not always that.”

The service doesn’t last more than 30 minutes and attendees are invited to join others in fellowship afterwards. Connor hopes that people see a way to move forward together with others that are feeling the same way.