Happy Holidays? Maybe Not for Everyone
Decorations, music, lights, jolly laughter, candy, cookies, bells, carols all declaring this to be the most wonderful time of the year. But for some, it is not. While the holiday spirit may bring out the best in some, it also aggravates conditions such as depression, grief, sadness and loss.
Realizing that not everyone is full of joy, Rev. Will McGarvey will be holding a “Blue Christmas” service on the winter solstice, Wednesday, December 21, at 7 p.m., at East County Shared Ministry, 200 E. Leland Road (between Railroad and Harbor) in Pittsburg.
Those attending are invited to bring a photo or memento of loved ones who are no longer with them. These will be displayed along with an opportunity to light candles in their memory. The service will also offer hope for healing, comfort, strength and peace through meditation and remembrances. It is open to everyone.
Rev. Will McGarvey is Pastor of Community Presbyterian Church and Co-Pastor of East County Shared Ministry. This is the third year Pastor Will has lead this service for the community. “The holidays can be a busy time for folks,” says McGarvey, “and sometimes we need to slow down enough to hear the yearnings of our own hearts.”
About East County Shared Ministry
East County Shared Ministry consists of Community Presbyterian Church of Pittsburg and First Congregational Church of Antioch. ECSM recognizes, celebrates and gives thanks for the many diverse gifts of God among us. All are invited to participate in their community and worship life including, but not limited to, believers, seekers, agnostics, women and men, those of all sexual orientations and gender identities and expressions, those of all races and cultures, those of all classes and abilities, those who hope for a better world and those who have lost hope.
As they like to say every Sunday, “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.” Services are every Sunday at 10 a.m. Check newsletters for details and other events of interest.
Media contact:
Will McGarvey
[email protected]
East County Shared Ministry
200 E. Leland Rd.
Pittsburg, CA 94565
925-439-9361 church
www.cpcpittsburg.org
www.uccantioch.org
