Joy Lutheran Church to Offer “Blue Christmas” Service Dec. 12

(ROCKWALL, TX — December 5, 2018) According to Tom Schwolert, minister at Joy Lutheran Church, Christmas can be a painful and “blue” time of year for some. “It may be the first Christmas without a close friend or family member,” Schwolert said. “For others, memories of past experiences or the pain of present experiences and situations can become overwhelming. The holiday season can be very difficult and a reminder of the challenges in our lives.

“The constant refrain on the radio and television, in shopping malls and in churches, about the happiness of the season, about getting together with family and friends, reminds many people of what they have lost or have never had. The anguish of broken relationships, the insecurity of unemployment, the weariness of ill health, the pain of isolation – all these can make us feel very alone in the midst of the celebrating and spending. We need the space and time to acknowledge our sadness and concern; we need to know that we are not alone. We need encouragement to live the days ahead of us.”

For these reasons, Joy Lutheran Church will offer a special “Blue Christmas” service on Wednesday, December 12, at 7:00 p.m.

“Join others in sharing and hearing prayers, scripture and music that acknowledge that God’s presence is for those who mourn, for those who struggle – and that God’s Word comes to shine light into our darkness,” said Schwolert. “Everyone, regardless of church background (or lack of it) is welcome.”

Joy Lutheran Church is located at 302 N. Goliad (Highway 205) in Rockwall, just north of the historic Rockwall County Courthouse. For additional information, contact Minister Tom Schwolert at 214-995-1720. The church’s website is www.joylutheranchurch.org.

Submitted press release.

Our monthly print edition is delivered free to ~20,000 homes in Rockwall and Heath, TX.