'Alternative' Christmas to help boost spirits

For years, Pastor Pete Nelson of Carson Valley United Methodist Church wanted to offer an "alternative Christmas" for people who may experience feelings that don't fit with the season.

On Dec. 19, he's opening the church to anyone who finds their holiday spirit lacking.

"It would be wonderful if December was kind of a hiatus from pain, but people die on Christmas Eve; people die on Christmas day," Nelson said.

"For those folks that day is forever tainted by that memory. Perhaps your heart returns to a time when a loved one was dying or an accident changed your Christmas tradition forever."

By offering a place people can come to share those feelings, Nelson is hoping to make the holiday more manageable.

"This year with the economic realities, some people are wondering if they are even having a Christmas," he said. "In a time of frustrated finances and unreal expectations, it's important to know that you are not alone."

Nelson invited participants to come without expectations.

"There will be no judgments " just people gathering for the purpose of shared forgiveness, healing and the possibility of grace," he said.

"I think a lot of folks get stuck around this time of year. They don't even realize what's sinking them. I think it would be incredible to have a place where they can voice those feelings and have them sincerely heard," Nelson said.

He promised no gimmicks.

"I am not going to preach at them. I am not even going to prepare a sermon. I am going to be prepared for dialogue. It will be completely unscripted," he said.

He stressed that the evening is open to people of all ages and denominations. Free child care will be provided.

"Come as you are. The only requirement for coming is that your heart is just a little broken," he said. "You can yell if you want, or you can remain silent. I hope people who come with a long face may leave with a smile."