Longest Night Service to take place Wednesday

VANCOUVER — The Christmas season isn’t always a happy time for everyone.

For many people, including those who have recently lost a loved one through death or divorce, lost a job, or are struggling with health issues are among those who can feel out of place with all the holiday cheer and busy-ness. There are also those who feel overwhelmed, or just wish for a quiet, worshipful hour during the season.

Longest Night Service to take place Wednesday
On Wed., Dec. 21, the longest night of the year, Clark County residents are invited to celebrate Christmas in a more contemplative way. The Longest Night Service is a quiet service with music, prayers and scripture readings. Photo courtesy of Diane Stevens

On Wed., Dec. 21, the longest night of the year, Clark County residents are invited to celebrate Christmas in a more contemplative way. The Longest Night Service is a quiet service with music, prayers and scripture readings.

The sanctuary is dimly lit and people feel comfortable crying if they need. Towards the end of the service, people can come forward, light a candle from the Christ candle, then bring that light to the altar which is filled with small unlit candles that symbolize a person’s burdens. The person can then light one or more of the candles on the altar, symbolizing bringing Christ’s light to their burdens.

The service is built around peace and hope as well as the reminder that Christ is with us, even in our darkest hour.

The Longest Night Service will be held Wed., Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, 11005 NE Highway 99, Vancouver, WA 98686.

For more information, call (360) 573-1461.

Longest Night Service to take place Wednesday
For many people, including those who have recently lost a loved one through death or divorce, lost a job, or are struggling with health issues are among those who can feel out of place with all the holiday cheer and busy-ness. There are also those who feel overwhelmed, or just wish for a quiet, worshipful hour during the season. Photo courtesy of Diane Stevens
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