Second Unitarian Church in Chicago, Illinois, Plans Wednesday Blue Christmas Service for Those Grieving

The Second Unitarian Church of Chicago is holding its annual Blue Christmas service on Wednesday at 7 p.m. at 656 W. Barry Ave. in East Lakeview. The service is for people who are grieving or facing personal struggles during the holiday season.

The Rev. Jason Lydon, a minister at the church, said the service is designed for “those who are experiencing loss, or grief or navigating personal struggles during season that teaches us we are supposed to be celebrating and joyful all the time. That’s not the reality for so many of us.”

Lydon said this is the fifth year the congregation has set aside a space for people dealing with loss at this time of year. He described the gathering this way: “The more of us who lift up any boulder, the lighter that boulder is. The more of us who come together to surround each other with love, the greater that love is present.”

Maria Pike, a board member at Chicago Survivors, also spoke about the season. “Oh, they were the worst holidays,” she said. Twelve years ago, Pike said, she was in deep pain, even suicidal, after her son was killed.

Pike said she later offered support to other victims’ families and now serves as a board member with Chicago Survivors. “When I saw there was some need out there that I could help with, I was concentrated on myself. So, I believe, some kinds of grief, serving is essential,” she said. Her experience of turning toward others after her own loss shows that comfort can pass from one grieving person to another (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

Pike also offered a message to people who are grieving. “Don’t feel that you are alone; you are going to notice that empty chair, but remember. And you have others who love you and need you. And your presence is very, very important in this world,” she said.

Pike suggests doing an act of kindness when you are able, to offer some peace, at least for a moment.

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