MANISTIQUE — Christmas can be a painful time for some. It may be the first Christmas without a loved family member who has recently died; it may be a time that has always been difficult.

The constant refrain on the radio and television, in shopping malls and 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. We need the space and time to acknowledge our sadness and concern; we need to know that we are not alone.

Our spirits sink, as the days grow shorter. We feel the darkness growing deeper around us. We need encouragement to live the days ahead of us.

For these reasons, Zion Lutheran Church will be offering a special “Longest Night” service. It will be held on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017 at 6 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 435 Oak Street. All are welcome.

Come out, and join with us 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.