11/16/2013

HOLIDAY BLUES & BINGO DECEMBER 17th

For many people, Thanksgiving and Christmas are tough times. Holiday Blues are real. We who belong to the Church often imagine that if people came to us, to be cheered by Advent Candles, Christmas Carols, and the preaching of the Gospel in Christ's Nativity, those with the blues would be much better off. But most people stay away; they know better. An hour with Christian strangers, pretending to be joyful, all going home to their families and cozy homes, will not conquer loneliness. 

Beyond Sunday, though, and outside the space of worship, there are alternatives for treating the blues. Envision live music, free food/beverages, bingo, prizes, and a crowd that includes people from the towers, and people from the streets. Somewhere in the neighborhood, on neutral territory, people can connect; strangers will become neighbors.  We can be part of this.  As Church Beyond Sunday, Emmaus Road has the opportunity to co-host a Holiday Blues and Bingo event, Tuesday evening, December 17th. This is for old and young, for church, community, and neighbors. A collaborative team of people across Belltown are signing up to participate. This could be the beginning of something beautiful.