Blue Christmas, a service of hope and healing, will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday at United Methodist Church, according to a press release.

The service can be a meaningful experience for people who are having difficulty during this season due to grief, illness, stress, family situations or other life struggles.

It is not accidental that the service coincides with the winter solstice — the shortest day and the longest night of the year.

In the service of prayer, candlelight and quiet music, attendees will gather with neighbors and strangers — a family made one by brokenness.