Even though the holidays are defined by themes of joy and togetherness, it’s inevitably a melancholy time for some people.

If you’re one of them, whether you’re dealing with loneliness, the loss of a loved one, anxiety or other difficult life changes, Sumner First Christian Church wants to help.

The church will hold the Longest Night Service Dec. 21. The date is the winter solstice, literally the longest night of the year.

“The Longest Night is a way to name and recognize the darker places of our life and to remind ourselves of the light and hope that is coming to those darker places through the birth of Christ,” said Lori Bonkoski, writing on behalf of the event service.

The Longest Night is hosted in conjunction with Sumner United Methodist Church, Christ the King Lutheran Church and the Pastoral Care department of MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital. Child care will be provided and a reception will follow the service.

For more information, call First Christian at 253-863-7858. The church is located at 432 Wood Ave. in Sumner.