A Quiet Service of Hope for those Facing a Sad Christmas 

On Friday, December 21st at 6:30 PM,  Greenville First United Methodist Church will be holding a Service of the Longest Night.  This worship service is so named for two reasons:  1)  it is always held on or near the winter solstice, the day with the longest period of darkness, and 2)  it is offered especially for those who are experiencing a dark and sad holiday.   Christmas can be a very difficult, depressing time for some.  Some of us may feel pressure to be “joyful,” but inside we may be mourning the loss of loved ones, enduring sickness, suffering through a lack of employment, or some other difficult life situation.   This is a service that acknowledges the reality that this holiday season is not always “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” and that it is OK to grieve.  

The Service of the Longest Night includes prayers, songs, scriptures and comforting words of hope that Christ was born as a beacon of hope for all people, and especially those going through difficult times.   The hour-long service allows an opportunity for those in attendance to light a candle in memory of a loved one, or as a beacon of hope for themselves or others.   Light refreshments will be offered at its conclusion.   

This year will mark the seventh time The Service of the Longest Night has been offered as a gift to the community.    All are welcome to attend.   

First United Methodist Church is located at 202 W. 4th St. in Greenville on the corner of 4th and Sycamore streets, across from the library.  The church is fully handicapped-accessible, with a ramp located in the rear adjacent to the parking lot. For more information, call  937 548 3075.