For many, the upcoming holiday season is a time of good cheer.

But for many it isn’t.

And First Lutheran Church is holding an event this weekend for those who will struggle during this season.

“The Holiday season can be a painful time for some,” Pastor Jeff Ewing said. “It may be the first Thanksgiving or Christmas without a loved family member who has recently died; it may be a time that has always been difficult.”

Sunday’s event is called a Blue Holiday Service and it is set for Sunday at 2 p.m. at the church on Third Ave.

“The constant refrain on the radio and television, in shopping plazas and churches, about the happiness of the season, about getting together with family and friends, reminds many people of what they have lost or have never had,” Ewing said.

“The anguish of broken relationships, the insecurity of unemployment, the weariness of ill health, the pain of isolation – all these can make us feel very alone in the midst of the celebrating and spending.”

The service aims to provide a space to acknowledge those reasons for sadness.

“We need to know that we are not alone,” Ewing said. “We hope you can join us.”