Blue Christmas for those wishing a quiet holiday The holiday season is supposed to be a time of happiness and good cheer, but for many, the strain of family conflict, unemployment, or grief can cloud the celebrations. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), the added financial stress, holiday expectations, loneliness, and increased family interaction are catalysts for holidayrelated stress. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) offers a number of suggestions for coping with holiday stress. They include: · Setting realistic expectations for yourself and what you can reasonably accomplish · Giving yourself permission to feel any emotions this season, even sadness or loss · Volunteering at a food bank or other organization that helps you connect with others · Attending special services offered for those who struggle by religious organizations Trafalgar Presbyterian Church in north Oakville is one faith group that hopes to help those having a difficult time this Christmas. It is hosting a quiet candlelight service for the community on Friday, Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m. Non-members are welcome. "We understand that many people feel overwhelmed at this time of year," said Trafalgar Presbyterian's minister, Rev. Kristine O'Brien. "It is helpful to pause and take a deep breath, and to connect with a power beyond ourselves." Those who are going through a divorce or illness, and those who are marking the first Christmas since the loss of a parent or spouse, are particularly vulnerable in December, she said. The annual Blue Christmas service, now in its 10th year, recognizes the difficulty of the season and offers gentle carols and time for personal reflection in a quiet atmosphere. Visitors may remain anonymous if they wish. There is no cost. Contact Trafalgar Presbyterian Church at 905-842-2800 or www.trafalgarchurch.ca. To access the church, take Trafalgar Road to White Oaks Boulevard; turn onto Litchfield Road and follow the signs to the end of the street. 25 · Friday, December 14, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com Christmas Lunch Buffets Lionhead Golf & Country Club Dates: Dec. 6th & 7th, 10th to 14th & 18th to 21st Time: 11:00am to 2:30pm Price: $32.95* per person *plus applicable taxes and gratuity Join KaneffGolf for our Royal Ontario Golf Club Dates: Dec. 12th to 14th & 19th to 21st Time: 11:00am to 2:30pm Price: $30.95* per person Christmas Carol Service Dec. 16 The choirs from two Presbyterian churches are coming together for one show to help families celebrate the Christmas season. And what better way to celebrate than through music. The Christmas Carol Service will take place at Knox Presbyterian Church in Oakville on Sunday (Dec. 16). It will feature the voices of the church choirs of the Oakville and Burlington Knox churches. "Take time out from the shopping, decorating, baking and bustle of the holidays," said Heather Carey, a Knox Oakville chorister, in a news release. "This Christmas Carol Service is a terrific way to focus on the reason for the season." The service begins at 7 p.m. The church is located at 89 Dunn St. Admission is free, but non-perishable food items will be collected for the Kerr Street Ministries food bank. *plus applicable taxes and gratuity Reservations: (905) 455-8816 Reservations: (905) 693-9966 Purchase $100 or more in Merchandise and receive a Complimentary round of golf*. *valid weekdays anytime from Season Opening through May 3rd , 2013 Mandatory cart not included. 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