Blue Christmas - A Service for Hope and Healing 7:00pm Wednesday, December 17.
This year's event will be hosted by St. Norbert & Our Lady of the Brook. 1809 Walters. Ave., Northbrook, IL.
All are welcome!
What is a Blue Christmas Service?
Blue Christmas Services are often held near Dec. 21 (the longest night of the year) as solace for those who do not find Christmas a happy event. This may include those who are mourning the death of a loved one or a divorce; those who are suffering from illness, addiction, or estrangement; those who are lonely, struggling financially, or simply those with hard memories of Christmases past. Whatever the reason, this service acknowledges that God still loves us and continues to be the light of the world even if we struggle to rejoice.
On December 17, 2025, the Catholic Community of Glenbrook (Our Lady of Perpetual Help, St. Catherine Labouré, St. Norbert & Our Lady of the Brook), will be offering a Blue Christmas Service. This event will be held at St. Norbert Church in Northbrook.
No registration is required and there is NO fee. All are welcome.
The service will be facilitated by Certified Spiritual Director, Paula Kowalkowski, and will consist of reflective prayer and music. The service is a gentle reminder that we are never alone and that there is always hope.
Brief background of Paula Kowalkowski
Paula Kowalkowski has worked as a music educator on the high school and college level for over 30 years. She currently is the Music Director at St. Thomas Becket Church in Mount Prospect. Most recently, she received a Certificate in Spiritual Direction with an emphasis on Ignatian Spirituality from the Midwest Jesuit Province. She has facilitated programs and retreats at Bellarmine Retreat Center in Barrington.