For some, Christmas may not be the most wonderful time of the year. In fact, it might be the worst time, depending on your circumstances. Last Wednesday Wimbledon Salvation Army hosted a Blue Christmas Reflection, which allowed people to come into the church and reflect in a quiet way on what the Christmas season means to them.

“It was an opportunity for people who have experienced some sort of loss – maybe of a loved one, a child, their job, their health, their savings and don’t feel the happiness of the Christmas - to acknowledge these feelings and remember and reflect, ” said Lieutenant Annette Wicks, church leader. “Some people also requested practical advice and support and expressed appreciation for being prayed for.”

The Blue Christmas Reflection offered an alternative approach to the more traditional Christmas Carol services. “Sometimes, you just don’t feel like being around all those happy people singing happy carols,” said Annette. “Candle light, a peaceful environment, poems and prayers and a place to chill out and chat over a cup of tea enabled people to move beyond false or fake jollity to Jesus the real hope and joy of Christmas.”

Based on information supplied by Ailsa Flinders.