When the Holidays are Hard

Grief can hit especially hard during the holidays, when carols, decorations, and traditions remind you of the special times you shared with a loved one you lost or a relationship that ended. It may be especially difficult to pick up the pieces and get through another holiday after suffering a loss. How do you relate when everything around you is festive and joyful and you are feeling so very sad?

St. John the Divine is here to walk beside you. Here are some ways that your church family can support you during the holidays.

• Find Comfort and Joy: We invite you to experience peace at this gentle Christmas service designed to comfort those who are mourning a loss of any kind. The service is held in the intimate candlelit space of the Chapel and led by the Rev. Louise Samuelson with music by Anna Teagarden. Join us on Wednesday, December 21 at 6 pm in the Chapel.
• Connect with a Stephen Minister: The Stephen Ministry is a one-to-one lay caring ministry providing high-quality, confidential, Christ-centered care to people who are hurting. A Stephen Minister is someone who will offer Christian love and support, visit with you, listen, provide resources and referrals, and pray with and for you. Email stephenmin@sjd.org or call 713.622.3600 x265 to request a Stephen Minister.
• Talk with a grief facilitator: Our trained grief facilitators would be happy to meet with you over the phone. Please contact Norie Baldwin or Judy Thornton to set up a mutually convenient time for a telephone conversation.

We wish you peace at this, and all times. May the loving arms of our Lord embrace and comfort you, now and always.