New Delhi: Christmas, the season of joy and giving, is almost here. People around the world celebrate the day in different ways. Sometimes, the day is a season of sorrow, unfulfilled dreams, loneliness, and remembering loss. Blue Christmas is the day when emotional unavailability and sorrow can be expressed.
Blue Christmas is observed on December 21 every year. It is an occasion to remember and acknowledge the grief and extend support to a community. Let us look at what it means to Christmas, its significance and more.
Blue Christmas: Overview and When was it started?
Blue Christmas dates back to 1990 and is observed on December 21, also known as the Longest Night. It occurs during Advent in the Western Christian tradition. It marks the longest night of the year, the Winter Solstice, around December 21.
On this day, many Western Christian churches hold services to honour people who have lost loved ones and are grieving. This includes parishes from Catholicism, Anglicanism, Lutheranism, Methodism, Moravianism, and Reformed Christianity. The Holy Eucharist is typically part of these services.
The service often focuses on expressing grief, pain, and heartbreak while also highlighting the hope found in Christ.
During the service, candles may be lit in an Advent wreath, and empty chairs can be reserved to remember those who have passed away. The symbolism of the winter solstice, including the promise of longer days ahead, plays a significant role in these services.
Significance of Blue Christmas
Blue Christmas is about compassion. It encourages us to support those feeling sad during the holiday season and recognises and appreciates law enforcement personnel who work during this time.
Some churches offer Blue Christmas Services as a caring alternative to traditional gatherings for those struggling with sadness during the holidays.
Observing Blue Christmas
Different locations may observe Blue Christmas in different ways. Common practices include exchanging lighthearted celebrations for more sombre ones, praying, lighting candles, and acknowledging sorrow.
Being with someone who has lost a loved one can help lift their spirits. Offer support and help them cope with their loss. Share your condolences with grieving friends and thank law enforcement officers who spend the holiday away from home. Consider inviting them for Christmas dinner or adding blue lights to your decorations.
Some churches also call the Blue Christmas service the “Longest Night Service” because it happens on or around the year’s longest night.
Blue Christmas is observed annually on December 21. It offers solace to those grieving during the holiday season. This compassionate initiative provides an alternative to traditional celebrations, fostering support for those struggling with sadness and honouring those who serve during the holidays. It emphasises hope amidst grief and the promise of longer, brighter days to come. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
