For many of us, Christmas can be a painful time of the year.  It may be a first Christmas without a loved one or it may be that Christmas has been difficult for a long time.   With the constant “joyous” refrain all around us, many of us find these weeks before Christmas increasingly challenging.  The anguish of our own personal story – whether the loss of a relationship or a beloved pet, a job loss, or the loss of our own health – can make us feel lonely and isolated, out of synch with the festivities of the season.   Our grief over environmental challenges and the struggles of many in our communities may call out a desire in us to spend some quiet time, seeking the Christ Child in the midst of it all.

You are not alone!  Come and hear the Christmas story and light a candle to honour a loved one or your own particular grief.  Come and sing “Silent Night” by candlelight.  Or … simply come and sit quietly and allow us to be your “safe space” for a little while.

Please join Rev. Monika Wiesner and Jesuit Fr. Dirk Dunfee, spiritual directors at Loyola House, for an evening of prayer, connection and comfort as we welcome you to Loyola House’s first-ever Longest Night of the Year Christmas Service on Thursday, December 19 at 7 PM.

Donations gratefully received.