The Christmas season can be a tender time. For many, it brings grief, stress, loneliness, or memories that make the celebrations difficult to enter fully. While the world around us moves quickly toward joy and festivity, many carry burdens that are not easily set aside.
Blue Christmas—also known as Longest Night—is a quiet, prayerful liturgy offered in the days leading up to Christmas. These services create space to name our sorrows, to rest in God’s presence, and to receive the healing light of Christ. They remind us that Emmanuel comes not only to those rejoicing, but also to those who mourn, who struggle, and who long for hope.
This year, several parishes across the Diocese of Algoma are offering gentle services of scripture, music, reflection, and candlelight. All are welcome.
Tuesday, December 16 • 7:00 PM
Parish of The Good Shepherd, Emsdale
Saturday, December 20 • 7:00 PM
Church of the Ascension, Sudbury
Sunday, December 21 • 4:00 PM
Emmaus Anglican Church, Sault Ste. Marie
If your Algoma parish is also holding a Blue Christmas or Longest Night service and would like to be added to this diocesan listing, please contact: communications@dioceseofalgoma.com
May these gatherings be a source of comfort, hope, and light for all who need them this season.