LiturgyTools.net: Readings and hymns for Blue Christmas services

A selection of hymns and songs suitable for Blue Christmas or northern hemisphere Longest-Night services.

Most are free-to-use (ie public domain or copyright-free) meaning the words can be copied and sung to at least one tune with no concerns about copyright or performance licensing - sometimes in a limited setting.

About Blue Christmas

"Blue Christmas" is an alternative type of church service foe people who have experienced a personal loss or incident which means they are not, at the moment, feeling to the usual joy and happiness of the Christmas season. These services are typically held in late December (close to the 21st) - but can be held at other times too, including 21 June (the longest night in the southern hemisphere).

Often people these services cater for have experienced a loss like death of a loved one, marriage breakup, serious illness/disability, job-loss, or a traumatic event like a serious assault or injury.

Aims of such a service often include reminding people that they are not alone, honouring their their feelings, and if possible providing some experience of a healing ritual, eg lighting a candle or praying with someone.

There is no defined set of scripture readings for such a service, but some suggestions are below.

Similarly hymns generally need to focus on healing and be contemplative. Some free-use and currently-subject-to-copyright suggestions are below, including some of the more restrained traditional Christmas carols.