“long dark night of the soul” ……….. “the winter of our discontent”
For many, the approaching holiday season can be a painful time of year. The constant refrains on radio and tv, in Shopping malls and greeting cards about the joy and happiness of the season, reminds many people of what they have lost. They may be facing a holiday after the death of a loved one or after a divorce. Perhaps they have been unable to have a child or have suffered through an emotional trauma. Or maybethey simply feel pressured and over whelmed by holiday preparations. Perhaps it’s a past pain and sorrow which brings a flood of memories to darken and dampen the days. Regardless of the reason,this season can be a timein which memories of past experiences and the pain of present experiences can become overwhelming.
Blue Christmas is a service where we can, with others, acknowledge the “blue” feelings we have at Christmas time, the reasons for them, and offer them to God. It is a Safe, Quiet Space for us to grieve, no matter what grief-related event we may be experiencing, without apologizing for the way we feel. It’s also a place to experience the message of hope the season brings.
In this service, we will have some singing appropriate to the season, recognizing that this is not a season of joy for everyone. We will invite you to reflect on the pain, the loneliness, the sadness, anxiety, anger or fear you may feel and offer it to God for healing and transformation. We pray that you will find comfort in knowing that you are not alone and hope in Godwho knows your pain and loves you unconditionally.
People of God as we hear again the joyful news of the birth of our Savior and celebrate the faithfulness of God. We offer three services of worship at HUMC on Christmas Eve, each designed to allow you and yours to hear the story and remember the promise.
5:00 pm Worship around the Manger
A service for families with preschool aged children, this 30 minute services invites us into the story of Christmas in word and song that any age will enjoy.
7:00 pm A Service of Candlelight and Communion
This traditional service of worship invites the whole family to hear and celebrate the Christmas Good News. We celebrate communion and sing with the Heavenly Hosts!
11:00 pm Quite Candlelight Communion
All the hubbub is stilled, children are tucked in bed, and the silence of this night descends. This quiet service invites you to ponder the mystery of this holy night as we hear the story and break bread together.
Charming and funny, the animated film “The Star” views the story of Jesus’ birth through the eyes of the animals. With quick wit while holding strong to the Biblical storyline, discover new insights to the
courage behind the characters.
Bring your kids and your kids friends to Harrisburg United Methodist on Nov. 26th, 5 pm. The Popcorn will be ready, and lemonade too. Bring a blanket or pillow to curl up on the floor (or a chair), as we all join together to begin the journey to Christmas.
Join us Sunday afternoon for an Italian lunch. Profits to go to Habitat for Humanity.Goal is to raise $2000.
Check out the Habitat Cabarrus website https://www.habitatcabarrus.org/
Interested in working on a Habitat House contact John Lomonaco if you are willing to work on a house that day.Email Johnjdlomonaco@ctc.netor call 704-455-5053
