As the holiday season approaches, the air is filled with joy, festivities, and the warmth of togetherness. However, for many individuals, this time of year can be a sad reminder of the absence of loved ones who are no longer with them. In the midst of the celebration, the ache of grief can intensify, making the holiday season a challenging time for those mourning the loss of someone dear.
The professionals of Roper & Sons Funeral Home in Lincoln, Nebraska understand the grief that individuals and families may experience during the holidays. That is why they host their annual Blue Christmas Service that will be held on Sunday, December 17, 2023. The service will be at 4:00 p.m. at Roper & Sons South Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Drive in Lincoln.
A Thoughtful Blue Christmas Service
The Blue Christmas Service is a thoughtful and intentional gathering designed to provide solace for those living with grief during the holidays. Unlike traditional celebrations, this service acknowledges and addresses the emotional weight that the season may carry for some. The term “Blue Christmas” itself reflects the somber emotions often associated with grief and loss, symbolizing the need for understanding and support in the face of holiday cheer.
One of the key features of a Blue Christmas Service is its focus on creating a safe and supportive environment. This intentional atmosphere allows attendees to express their grief openly without fear of judgment or societal pressure to conform to the expected festive spirit. Through gentle lighting, soothing music, and carefully chosen readings, the service aims to provide a serene backdrop where individuals can reflect on their emotions and memories. Roper & Sons’ service will be conducted by Pastor Kerry O’Bryant.
A Feeling of Camaraderie
Blue Christmas provides a shared experience of loss that can create a profound sense of camaraderie among attendees, fostering connections that extend beyond the service. Roper & Sons offers this supportive environment where people find solace in knowing that others understand their pain and are willing to walk alongside them through the difficult holiday season.
Other Ways to Cope with Grief during the Holidays
It’s important to acknowledge that the holiday season will be hard for those who are experiencing it for the first time without their loved one. Here are some additional ways to navigate complex feelings at this time of year:
- Establish new holiday traditions which can help shift the focus and create positive experiences.
- Set up a memorial or create a space to honor and remember your loved one.
- Connect with friends, family, or a support group to share your feelings.
- Give yourself permission to modify or skip holiday celebrations if they feel too overwhelming.
- Allow yourself to express your grief openly.
- Prioritize self-care, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
- Incorporate your loved one’s memory into the holiday celebrations.
Grief Group Counseling
Providing an opportunity for anyone in the Lincoln community to grieve is why Roper & Sons offers free monthly Grief Group Counseling sessions in a comforting environment in which attendees can express emotions through each phase of the grieving process, or simply sit among others who may be experiencing similar feelings to their own.. Grief Group Counseling sessions are held the first and third Sunday of each month from 1:45 – 2:45 p.m. at Roper & Sons Midtown Chapel, located at 4300 O Street in Lincoln, Nebraska. Addiction Loss Group sessions are held every third Sunday of the month from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the Midtown Chapel. Melissa Thorne, LIMHP, LADC, a Grief Therapist at Roper & Sons, leads the sessions.
As we celebrate the holiday season, remember that everyone grieves differently, and there is no right or wrong way to navigate the holidays. The most important aspect is to be compassionate with yourself and allow the space needed for healing.