You’re not alone: Blue Christmas service geared toward those struggling during holidays

[SILVER CITY, NEW MEXICO, 12/21/19] — — Although the holidays are supposed to be the “most wonderful time of the year,” sometimes, it’s just not realistic.

For those who may be feeling under the weather this holiday season, New Church of the Southwest Desert and Silver City United Church of Christ are co-hosting their second annual Blue Christmas / Winter Solstice Service on Dec. 21.

The goal of the service is to support those who aren’t feeling their best this holiday season. In observance of the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, those gathered take a soulful journey from the darkness into the light.

The service is a quiet gathering for people who are not feeling up for the cheerful holiday festivities involved in a cheerful Christmas service. This unique event includes: the science and  historical significance of the Winter Solstice observance; the lighting of candles in remembrance of those who have past; powerful music; and readings from the bible and the writings of Emanuel Swedenborg. This observance is free and open to the public. Donations are appreciated, and refreshments are available for purchase at the Oasis counter.

The annual service was started by Rev. Tyler Connolley, the founding pastor of Silver City United Church of Christ, in 2014. The tradition continued with SCUCC’s lay minister Wendy Spurgeon, and music director Rick Stille in 2016. In 2017, SCUCC joined forces with Pastor Linda Callander of the New Church of the Southwest Desert for a truly ecumenical experience.

Now NCSWD and SCUCC share worship space in the beautifully designed Sanctuary at Oasis Coffee and Tea House at 714 N. Bullard St. in Silver City, NM. Formerly known as “the old Domino’s building”, Oasis was transformed by volunteers from various faith traditions to become the beautiful, homey, interfaith café of downtown Silver City. “We were still in construction last year, so we didn’t hold the service in 2018”, says Wendy Spurgeon of SCUCC. “We are so honored to be co-hosting with our brothers and sisters at New Church again this year. We’re moving into the light of a new decade, hand in hand, in the spirit of extravagant welcome. As we say at SCUCC, ‘No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!’”