Christmas is a time of joy and celebration for many people, but that isn’t the case for everyone. This service acknowledges that fact, providing an opportunity to light candles in recognition of the sadness that comes from the loss of a friend or family member, or any other pain and emptiness we may feel. As we light those candles, we proclaim that foundational truth from John’s Gospel: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” The carols at this service reflect Christmas hope in that darkness, and we offer prayers for healing and support one another.