For many people, this time of year brings a sense of melancholy because there is a lot of focus on giving, joy and family being together.

Many will face the first holiday without a loved one. When you lose someone you love, the famous words of an Elvis Presley hit.

"I'll have a blue Christmas without you," is a very accurate description of how you feel. This year the winter solstice, the longest night of the year, will fall on Dec. 21.

A special worship service will be held that night at 6:30 p.m. in the historical chapel at Swift Presbyterian Church in Foley.

The "Longest Night" service is a gift to the community, designed to bring comfort to those who are experiencing grief from a loss due to death.

The service will give us the opportunity to gather together in remembrance of our loved ones and to praise God for our life memories.

Special music, candle lighting, scriptures of comfort and prayers for strength will be shared this night. As a gathered community, we will draw from the season's offer for healing and hope, and offer support and comfort to those who struggle to find their way during this season.

Mark your calendar for this beautiful night and invite someone that is feeling "the blues" about the upcoming holiday season to attend the service with you.

On this longest night of the year, hope and comfort are available.

For more information, please visit our website at SwiftChurch.org.