St. John Lutheran Church will hold a church service known as the “Longest Night” on Dec. 21 during the winter solstice for people who are experiencing grief or the loss of a loved one.
The event started when a member of the church went through a period of grief following the death of her husband. The woman read about a Longest Night service held elsewhere, which inspired her to create one at St. John Lutheran Church, stated a news release.
It’ll be the 12th time the church will hold the service, which will feature live music, prayers and scripture readings in a quiet setting. The service will also be dimly lit so attendees can express their emotions if they feel comfortable doing so, stated the release.
Following the service, the congregation will light a Christ candle and make their way to the altar which will be filled with small unlit candles that symbolizes people’s burdens. Attendees can then light one or more candles on the altar, which symbolizes Christ bringing light to their burdens, the release stated.
When each person leaves the service, they will hopefully have peace, hope and the understanding that Christ is with them, even at their worst times, stated the release. The public is welcome to attend.
The Longest Night service will be held at 7 p.m. on Dec. 21 at St. John Lutheran Church at 11005 NE Highway 99, Vancouver.
For more information, call 360-573-1461 or email stjohnlc.com.
