While Christmas is a time of celebration, joy and family for many people, there are millions of people who face a less than joyous time.

Churches across the country have been holding what are called “Blue Christmas” or “Longest Night” services to reach out to people who are working through the loss of a loved one, a marriage or other difficulties during the holidays.  The services are more somber than many Christmas celebrations and focus on the power of God’s forgiveness that came through the birth of Jesus.

In St. Louis, a man attended the service because he was still dealing with the loss of his mother earlier this year.  Charles Brown told the Associated Press he felt the service was a time for him to lay his burden down and took comfort from the message that God is with him.

Pastors prayed and anointed parishioners with oil who sought prayer, salvation or comfort.

Some of the churches did not even include a sermon.  The services focused on the reading of Scripture, prayer and songs of healing.