Family gatherings, holiday parties, music about joy and peace, and images of smiling people holding gifts fill the days leading up to Christmas. And yet, “all is merry and bright” rings hollow for many people experiencing grief and loss during this season. In religious communities, we sometimes jump directly to the “hope” portion of the story without lingering in the waiting, the longing, and the loss woven into the story of Christ’s birth.

Dave and Emily join Autumn to encourage those suffering, exhort those walking with sufferers, and discuss how Christmas uniquely welcomes in all who are grieving.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

“Every Moment Holy, Volume II: Death, Grief, and Hope" by Douglas Kaine McKelvey