‘Blue Christmas’ service to be held at Newington Green

Sharing: Unitarian Church on Newington Green. Photograph: Hackney Citizen

Although the Christmas period is joyful for many, it can be a trying time of the year when life is not going well, with feelings of pain or sadness magnified by the expectations of the festive season.

For this reason, Newington Green Unitarian Church will be holding a ‘Blue Christmas’ service on Boxing Day at 6pm.

Those who have lost a loved one or are suffering from ill health, depression or even homesickness will be able to ‘name their sorrow’ and receive comfort in London’s oldest nonconformist church.

The interfaith and humanist service will involve candles, music and time to reflect, followed by a shared meal of bread and soup.

New Unity’s minister, Reverend Andy Pakula, said: “Christmas messages make it seem like this is a happy time for everyone, but it can be very painful for many. We want to create a space where suffering can be eased and where it just feels acceptable to be sad.”

For more information, go to: Blue Christmas  –  Service and Soup supper.