West Suffield Congregational Church

I can’t believe Christmas is right around the corner. By the time you read this the West Suffield Congregational Church will be wrapped in greens and twinkling lights. I wish I could say I feel prepared, but I don’t. I never do. Don’t get me wrong. I love Christmas, I love all the sacred elements, the image of the sweet baby that came to change the world, the music, the advent candles, especially the excitement in the children’s faces… that’s my favorite part. Nonetheless, holidays are stressful, Christmas among them. Emotions tend to run high, finances can be a worry, as can trying to find the time to do all of our shopping and preparation. For those of us who have lost people, Christmas can feel isolating. There is nothing more poignant than grief when you are surrounded by people who are celebrating; it can be very hard.

I have a suggestion for those of us who struggle; come to church. Really. Give yourself one precious hour a week to decompress, to listen to music, hear words of hope, and be among friendly, supportive people. Grant yourself that grace in this busy season. It doesn’t have to be any particular church. For years I have had a habit of slipping into the back of churches when I need some rest. I find the soft lights and the music soothing. On one memorable Christmas when I was a teenager, I snuck into the back of a church after some Christmas shopping and promptly passed out cold (at first, I thought I’d been struck by lightning, but it turned out just to be the flu). As embarrassing as that was, the kindness of the people who came to tend to me became a real Christmas present for me that year; miracles abound at Christmas, you know.

So come to church. Slide into the back pews if you’re shy. Rest. Seek the joy of the season and you will find it in abundance.

If you need a reason to smile, our children’s pageant and potluck will be at our 10 a.m. service on December 14. We have 30 children registered for Sunday school this year so we’re expecting some merriment! Our Christmas Eve service will be held at 5 p.m. That way those of you who are entertaining can still get out. It is sacred, the sanctuary will be candlelit, and the musical will be glorious.

I hope we get to see you. If we don’t, I hope you have a blessed Christmas, filled with joy and the sacred. Love, Denise