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Crossroads
HOLIDAY CHEER
DARRELL NESBITT/CROSSROADS THIS WEEK
Members of the Oakburn Lions Club ushered in the festive season with the installation of outdoor Christmas yard decorations in the heart of the community’s business section, including this display of Santa in his sleigh pulled by his famous reindeer. It’s the time of year when yards throughout the area are lit up with holiday cheer by proud home and business owners.
Blue Christmas services will be held across the region, acknowledging the hardships the season can b ring
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
Crossroads This Week
As the region gears up for the festive season rush, several local churches – including locations in Birtle, Erickson, Minnedosa, and Russell – are offering a quiet contrast to the usual holiday cheer.
These solemn gatherings, known as Blue Christmas or Longest Night services, provide an important space for those coping with grief, loss, and loneliness. The Christmas season can be extremely difficult for many, and these services acknowledge the hardship beneath the surface of celebration.
This year, the services will be held throughout the area in the days leading up to Christmas – Erickson Lutheran Church will hold its service on Dec. 15 at 7:00 p.m., followed by St. George Anglican Church in Birtle on Dec. 19 at 7:00 p.m. Both Knox United Church in Russell and Minnedosa United
Church will hold their respective Longest Night services on the winter solstice, Dec. 21, with the Russell service starting at 7:00 p.m.
The Christmas season, often defined by feelings of happiness and family closeness, can increase feelings of isolation and sadness for those dealing with loss – whether
it be the death of a loved one, a difficult divorce, job loss, or chronic illness. These unique services create a necessary spiritual and emotional space, giving participants permission to feel their sadness in a community setting.
