A Blue Christmas Candlelight Service will be held at the First Christian Church of Cumberland beginning at 6 p.m. on Dec. 23 in the church sanctuary. The community service is open to all and provides a time for comfort and consolation for anyone who is sad, weary, or struggling with the burden of loss during this Christmas season.

“Many in our community are hurting and likely feel less than joyous this Christmas season,” noted Pastor Dan Fitzpatrick. He added, “Our annual Blue Christmas service is one way we showing compassion to those who are suffering around us.”

A Blue Christmas service provides a time for sharing and experiencing comfort, peace, and healing in a caring environment. Fitzpatrick recalled, “Each Christmas when I hear Elvis sing “Blue Christmas” it pulls on my heart strings and I can’t help but think about those who have suffered the loss of their loved ones, independence, or jobs. Many in our community experience mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical stress. Others struggle with keeping body and soul together.”

“We want our community members to know that they are not alone and that someone recognizes not everyone’s Christmas is always merry,” noted Sis.Dolly Watts. As members of the family of God, we are to help others not only with our monetary resources but also with our emotional and spiritual support. “Our congregation wanted to do more to help those who have experienced loss, which is often felt more acutely during the holidays. Each Sunday we pray for comfort for those who have lost loved ones,” she added.

The Blue Christmas Candlelight Service is one way First Christian Church reaches out and shares the love of Christ in our community. Pastor Fitzpatrick extended an open invitation to any and all who need a word of comfort, hope, and encouragement. Please plan to participate in this special community event on Dec. 23, Fitzpatrick urged.

The First Christian Church (FCC) of Cumberland is an independent, non-denominational assembly of believers in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. FCC is a small community church with a big heart. Sunday services begin at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary at 110 Freeman Street in Cumberland, and are open to all.

For more information, contact Sis. Dolly Watts at 606-589-4253 or Brother Dan Fitzpatrick at 606-424-3440.