Hillsdale College Hosts Fifth Annual Blue Christmas Service
The Christian liturgical service aims to comfort those who suffer during Advent and Christmas
HILLSDALE, Mich. — On Dec. 6, Hillsdale College’s Blue Christmas service in Christ Chapel offered a place of worship to those whose suffering supersedes the joy that is culturally paramount this season. The ecumenical service, which included Scripture lessons and prayers specifically for those who grieve, was open to students, faculty, staff, and their families.
The College held its first Blue Christmas service in 2016 under the direction of College Chaplain Adam Rick and Director of Health Services Brock Lutz.
“Statistics show that depression increases over the holidays,” said Rick. “The aim of this service is to help people who struggle during the holidays find a place for themselves in the Christmas story, and to come alongside them as they do.”
Rick and Lutz thought the addition of a Blue Christmas service at Hillsdale college was fitting, as students from across the country, who have joined together for a few months of singular focus and hard work, must head back to myriad domestic situations and different life stories.
“Not everybody wants to go home at Christmas,” said Lutz. “We hope this service gives participants a place to be themselves and to remember and reflect on the pain of loss, personal suffering, and most importantly their personal faith in God amid hardship, especially during the Advent and Christmas seasons.”
The service includes readings from Scripture, a brief homily, and intercession for those who suffer. Rick said the real power of the service is the middle component where participants light candles as a way to “name their grief.” There is also a meditative time for healing prayer and some simple counseling.