It's easy for us to forget that in our own church family and community there are those for whom the idea of Christmas joy is not part of the season this year. We want to minister to those among us who are struggling to enter into the joy of the Christmas season.

That is why on Sunday, December 19th from 3-4 pm, First Free will be presenting a Blue Christmas gathering, paying attention to the special needs of people who are "blue" or in pain at this time. This gathering will be a blend of elements that recognize Christmas and the fact that Jesus came to offer hope, as well as the fact that people are in pain. The Blue Christmas gathering will be a quiet time of reflection and remembrance using various Scripture passages and gentle music. It is our desire to offer support and healing to a hurting, broken world, all the while pointing to the hope that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Following the gathering, there will be a café with light refreshments.