Church in Ocean Park will host “Longest Night Service” this Saturday, Dec. 20 from 5 pm to 6 pm, followed by a “Hug Walk” along Main Street from 6 pm to 7 pm.
The service will be held at Church in Ocean Park at 235 Hill Street, Santa Monica.
Rev. Janet McKeithen, Church in Ocean Park minister, said the Longest Night Service is a time to recognize that the Holiday season can be a bittersweet time of the year for some people.
“The constant refrain about getting together with family, reminds many people of what and who they have lost, or what they never had,” McKeithen said. “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 much alone in the midst of the festive season. We need space and time to acknowledge our sadness and concerns. We need to know we are not alone.”
McKeithen said the church invites residents to “experience a meditative worship service that takes time for remembering, sharing our hurting places with God, and preparing our hearts for the coming of the embodiment of Love.”
“Join with us to hear holy readings, offer prayers for healing and wholeness, and to hear song that acknowledges that God is with those who mourn, those who grieve, those who struggle,” McKeithen said. “We are not alone.”
Everyone is welcome to attend. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/churchop.
