Image Credit: Kent Simmonds / CFJC Today

By Dylana Kneeshaw

blue christmas

Blue Christmas service returns for heavy-hearted Kamloops residents

Dec 10, 2024 | 4:39 PM

KAMLOOPS — For people going through a difficult time or grieving a loved one, the holiday season may not feel like ‘the most wonderful time of the year.’ That’s why the annual Blue Christmas service at Kamloops United Church was created.

Blue Christmas was started as a way for people to acknowledge their sadness or grief in a more quiet, sombre environment instead of the typically high-energy holiday celebrations.

“In the midst of We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Jingle Bells and Santa Claus, not everyone wants to celebrate,” explains Rev. Andrew Macpherson. “There are some people who have lost a loved one — it could be a spouse, it could be a son, daughter, a close neighbour or a friend — and they’re sad. And they want to express their sadness and Blue Christmas gives them a chance to do so.”

The service is usually held at the Kamloops United Church building downtown, but with fire repairs still underway, this year it will be held at the organization’s Pacific Way location in the former Plura Hills United Church.

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“And people from all faith backgrounds are welcome. You don’t have to be Christian, you don’t have to be religious. Because something that ties all these people is the loss of a loved one and that’s what we’re here to provide that presence for,” adds Macpherson.

Blue Christmas begins at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday (Dec. 11) at 2090 Pacific Way.