For many, the holidays are a happy time, filled with family, food, fun and traditions.

 

For others, this time of year can be difficult.

 

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church is hosting a service tonight, in hopes of providing comfort to those who find hardship in the holidays. Longing for Light in the Darkness will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. tonight at the church, 207 N. Greenwood St.

 

“For a lot of folks, this is a happy time,” said Allen Pruitt, rector at St. Mark’s. “For a lot of people it’s a difficult time because of loss, either through death or absence. We want to give those folks a space for their grief and sadness.”

 

The service will include prayer, song and scripture with music provided by the LaGrange High School choir. Those who attend may light a candle during the service to express prayers they may not be able to say out loud, Pruitt said.

 

Childcare is available during the service.

 

“Even for folks who enjoy Christmas, it can be a daunting time with the effort and demand it takes to create that image of perfection,” Pruitt said.

 

An offering will be taken during the service, with all money collected going to the Troup Baptist Association’s mental health counseling fund. The service offers counseling to those who otherwise can’t afford it.