The public is invited to light candles of healing at the annual Longest Night Service at Niles Discovery Church on Sunday, Dec. 21 at 7:30pm. During this meditative service, people light candles to gently hold and release the challenges and heartbreaks that have impacted them this past year.
“For many people, Christmas time is a bittersweet time of year,” said Rev. Jeffrey Spencer, pastor at Niles Discovery Church. “For people who are dealing with grief, significant life changes, sobriety, family dysfunction and alienation, loneliness and other challenges, this time of year can be especially difficult.”
The service will be held in the church’s sanctuary, and it will be streamed to Zoom. Those who want to attend on Zoom need to pre-register at bit.ly/longnight2025.
“Our congregation holds this meditative service during the longest nights of the year because there are always people who need to share hurting places with God,” said Spencer.
During the service, a series of brief scriptural readings and meditative questions are spoken aloud. People worshipping at home are encouraged to create a worship space near their computers.
“For some people, it’s what gets them through the holiday season,” Spencer said. “For other people, it’s what makes them look forward to the festivities, including our Christmas Eve service.”
Every Dec. 24 at 10pm, the church lights celebratory candles and sings Christmas carols. Everyone is invited to both services.
Longest Night Service
Sunday, Dec. 21
7:30pm
Niles Discovery Church
36600 Niles Blvd., Fremont
