First Presbyterian Church & First Methodist Church of Albany host The Longest Night traditional worship service

ALBANY, Ga. – The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness for many, filled with warmth of family gatherings and festive celebrations.

Yet, for some, it can be a plaintive reminder of loss or life’s unyielding challenges, leaving them feeling isolated during what is meant to be the most wonderful time of the year.

Recognizing this, First Presbyterian Church and First Methodist Church of Albany have come together to extend a compassionate hand to those in need of solace.

“Tonight is a worship service that is called The Longest Night. And, it’s traditionally done on the longest night of the year, the winter solstice, symbolizing the night that has the most darkness in it. And it’s a service where we intentionally invite in people who have experienced a loss in the last year. Some kind of pain, grief, depression, loneliness, anything that would make this Christmas season not as joyful as it could be. So, shining the light into the darkness is the theme of the service,” said Joshua Bower, Pastor, First Presbyterian Church.

The evening began with a moment of silent prayer, creating a sacred space for reflection and healing. The service continued with the lighting of candles, each flame symbolizing hope and light for those navigating the shadows of grief, loss, and hardship.

Joshua Bower, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, emphasized the importance of providing a sanctuary of comfort and hope, offering those in the community who are hurting a place to be seen and supported during this difficult season.

“In a season like this, the scripture says in John chapter one, “the word became flesh and made his dwelling, made his home among us.” How can we not make our home among the folks where we are? I hear somebody say for God so loved the world that he didn’t send a text message, right? We got to be there. We got to be there in person. And, it’s not just us. First Presbyterian. This is a joint service tonight with First Methodist Church. And, so, evidence of our unity, a symbol of our unity here in this community and for this community,” said Pastor Bower.

First Presbyterian Church and First Methodist Church remain steadfast in their commitment to the community, keeping their doors open as a beacon of hope and belonging for all who seek comfort and connection.

“So, our churches are downtown right here on the corner of Jackson and Flint Street, both First Methodist and First Presbyterian Church. You can come in person. We’re both on Facebook. First Methodist and First Presbyterian Albany,” said Pastor Bower.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

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