As the days get shorter and darker it can be especially challenging for those experiencing loss.
Although its common, grief is never easy and can stem from a variety of causes including job loss, family break up, health changes, or the death of a pet, a friend or co-worker, a spouse or a family member. It’s also common for many to feel despair and isolation as the holiday season approaches, amplified by the financial pinch of trying to make ends meet.
Many local organizations and service clubs in the Comox Valley come together during the holiday season to acknowledge the hardship and needs of others. Among them, the Comox United Church and Comox Valley Hospice Society are once again combining efforts for the Blue Christmas and Celebrate a Life Service on December 14 at 2 p.m. This long-standing welcoming tradition seeks to create a space of comfort that acknowledges the discomfort of the holidays and validates the emotions of those who are experiencing loss and despair.
Blue Christmas is a non-denominational service of special readings, reflections, music and poetry that also provides an opportunity to remember those no longer with us. Attendees are welcome to have the name of a passed loved one read aloud (or not) and added to the Memory Tree. Those who come are also invited to stay for a time of conversation and light refreshments, and a number of Comox Valley Hospice Society volunteers will be there to provide emotional support, resource handouts, and information about programs and services that might be helpful.
The memory tree and its tags will be taken to the library area at the Comox Valley Hospice Society after the service and displayed until the new year. All tags are ceremoniously removed, and the name of each person is acknowledged once again by the hospice team.
The Blue Christmas and Celebrate a Life service will be held on December 14 at 2 p.m. at the United Church in Comox, led by Rev. Karen Hollis with contributions from congregation members, CVHS volunteers, and other community members. For more information, please email reception@comoxhospice.com or call the Comox Valley Hospice Society at 250-871-0696.
