St. John Lutheran Church in Vancouver is preparing for its 14th annual Longest Night service on Dec. 21, a contemplative gathering designed for people who find the holidays especially hard because of grief, loss or other burdens. Held on the winter solstice, the quiet service features live music, prayers and scripture readings in a dimly lit sanctuary, with a candle-lighting ritual inviting worshippers to bring Christ’s light to the weights they carry. Organizers say the goal is that each person leaves with a renewed sense of peace, hope and the assurance that Christ is present even in their darkest hour. The service begins at 7 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, 11005 NE Highway 99 in Vancouver. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/people/st-john-lutheran-church-longest-night-service-set-for-dec-21-2/ #VancouverWA #SalmonCreek #StJohnLutheran #LongestNightService #WinterSolstice #GriefAndLoss #HolidaySeason
