Circle of Light

O come Emmanuel,
Ransom us, held captive by our grief,
Mourning in lonely exile
During this festive season.
Scarred by death,
Scared of this holiday.

~Verse in a Litany in Circle of Light Service written by me

Tonight we gathered for the 16th year for the annual Christmas Remembrance Service in my parish. The ministry started with a handful of us, some of whom are still involved today. The evening of song, story, and prayer is interspersed with meaningful rituals meant to draw out the grief of Christmas before having to experience it in a larger crowd.

About 70 people came out tonight to remember. The service felt wonderful tonight. I still am grateful that I can give back to the community that helped me survive my winter of grief. With the recent news that one of the past participants is dying, I found myself a little teary for a moment. Even as people gathered though, I realized that I knew many of stories and at one point when I looked up, I could see tears in those who are newly grieving.

I pray that those who are mourning this Christmas will find peace in the One who came to banish Death.

Peace,

Suzanne