The holiday season is traditionally one filled with joy and wonder. But for people who have suffered a loss, it can be especially sad. For example, if you have lost a loved one or a job or a home, you aren’t able to celebrate Advent and Christmas like you did in the past. While everyone else is enjoying holiday cheer, the pain of your loss can be even more difficult to endure. You may wish to find someone who understands.

St. Matthew’s understands, and on Saturday, December 15 at 2 p.m., we will have what is called a Blue Mass in the Cathedral. This is a Christmas Eucharist for people who are hurting.

If you know of someone who is suffering, don’t just invite them to attend this service. Pick them up yourself and bring them. We will sing traditional Christmas carols but with a different emphasis. There will not be the happiness of Frosty, the Snowmanor Santa Claus is coming to Town. The music will be subdued, and there will be a special homily for people who are sad in this season of happiness. A candle service will be followed by a special litany and the Eucharist.

But this service can’t help someone if you don’t bring them! So please make your plans to invite a friend for whom Christmas, 2018, is difficult and unfamiliar. And let the love of God fill all of our hearts in a special way!

Canon David