Christmas Comfort For Grieving Offered By Red Bank Church

RED BANK, NJ — United Methodist Church of Red Bank is mindful of both the joys and the challenges of the Christmas season.

And for those who are struggling with grief and loss - perhaps made more stinging at this time of year - the church is offering an online service to provide comfort.

The service will be able to be seen as of Wednesday, Dec. 21, but will be on the church's website after that to access anytime, the church said.

And dealing with grief at the holidays or anytime is an important part of the mourning process, says Sheila Martello, founder and director of Stephy's Place in Red Bank, a support center for grief and loss. The organization also has a Facebook site that offers lots of information and support.

"Grief is like a fingerprint. It's unique to everyone," she said.

And she said it's beneficial to have different ways to process grief.

Remember those you lost. "Say their name," she said, adding that survivors can promise to remember their loved one and promise to keep living their own life.

To see the church's service, go to its YouTube channel. And you can go to the church website at www.umcredbank.org/tidings-of-comfort-service/ to view this special service.

For more information on "Comfort & Joy" Advent/ Christmas services here at UMC Red Bank, please visit umcredbank.org/christmas.

The church will have the following additional services as Christmas nears:

• Christmas Eve Family-Oriented Service: 5 p.m. service features the talents of youth and children and is interactive and kid-friendly.
• Christmas Eve Traditional Service: 9 p.m. traditional candlelight service.
• Christmas Sunday Worship: 10 a.m. online only service.

United Methodist Church of Red Bank is at 247 Broad St. 07701.