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Blue Christmas: Blue Christmas in the Western Christian tradition, is a day in the Advent season marking the longest night of the year.
Blue Christmas: A Western Christian practice known as “Blue Christmas” takes place on or near the longest night of the year, which is typically December 21 (the Winter Solstice). It aims to console grieving family members or friends who are having a difficult time finding joy and hope during the holiday season.
Date:
- 2024: 21 December, 2024 [Saturday]
- 2025: 21 December, 2025 [Sunday]
- 2026: 21 December, 2026 [Monday]
Why is Blue Christmas Observed?
As an alternative to the more conventional gatherings, the Blue Christmas Service, which dates back to 1990, offers a solemn and reflective worship service. This is in honor of those who are grieving and dealing with a loss.
The phrase has acquired a new meaning, though, since May 2016, when Simpsonville, South Carolina, resident Kevin Dunn initiated a movement to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel in order to keep us safe during the holiday season. This was in response to a police officer’s passing who passed away while on duty earlier in the year. The campaign aims to support law enforcement personnel and “honors the memories of those officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.”
What is the significance of Blue Christmas?
Both the traditional and the more modern versions of blue holidays are based on the idea that we should all try to be more compassionate. The holiday encourages us to support those who experience sadness during the holiday season and, more recently, to recognize and show our gratitude to the law enforcement personnel who keep us safe during this time.
Additionally, some churches see the Blue Christmas Service as an alternative to traditional gatherings to care for those who are depressed or having a difficult time during the holiday season while others celebrate.
How is Blue Christmas observed?
- The pattern varies depending on the location. However, it usually entails exchanging the happy and cheery for the grim and gloomy, praying, lighting candles, and being open to their sorrow.
- Spending time with someone who has lost a loved one is the best way to lift their spirits and assist in their recovery. Give them a helping hand and assist them in overcoming the pain of losing a loved one.
- Express your condolences to a friend who has lost a loved one and your appreciation to anyone who works in law enforcement and is usually away from home on this holiday. To show your support, you might even invite them to Christmas dinner or hang some blue lights.
- Use the hashtag #BlueChristmas to encourage people in the physical and digital worlds during this time. Someone might have needed hearing your words!
Since, the custom has always taken place on or around the longest night of the year, which is the Winter Solstice, December 21, some churches also refer Blue Christmas service as the “Longest Night Service.”
