Blue Christmas (holiday) facts for kids
Blue Christmas, also known as the Longest Night, is a special day observed by some Christian churches in the West. It happens during the Advent season, which is the time leading up to Christmas. This day is usually around December 21st, which is the longest night of the year.
On Blue Christmas, churches like Catholic, Lutheran, Methodist, Moravian, and Reformed churches hold a special service. This service is for people who are feeling sad, especially if they have lost someone they love. It's a time to remember those who have passed away and to find comfort. A special meal, called the Holy Eucharist or Holy Communion, is often part of this service.
It's interesting that this day is also the traditional feast day for Saint Thomas the Apostle. Saint Thomas had trouble believing that Jesus had come back to life. This connection helps people think about how Saint Thomas struggled with belief, how the nights are long before Christmas, and how people deal with sadness and loss.
What Happens During the Service?
During a Blue Christmas service, people have a chance to share their feelings of sadness. It's also a time to find hope and comfort. Candles on an Advent wreath are often lit during the service. Sometimes, empty chairs are set out to remember people who have passed away in the past year.
The idea of the longest night slowly turning into longer days after midnight is an important part of the service. This imagery helps show that even in sadness, there is a promise of light and hope. More and more churches are offering this service because it helps many people who find the holidays difficult when they are feeling sad.
See Also
- Allhallowtide
- Saint Thomas Day
- Totensonntag
