Crystal Lake Pastors Who Lost Son in Crash Hold 'Blue Christmas' Service

Photo credit: Hope Church Facebook page

Pastors Bill and Lisa Orris know firsthand how difficult the holidays can be after recently losing a loved one. Their son, Billy, 26, was killed in a motorcycle crash on Aug. 1 in Hoffman Estates, according to the Northwest Herald.

The crash happened the same week that a Huntley teen drove his car into Hope Church in Crystal Lake -- an accident that caused massive damage but no injuries. Repairs are still underway at the church where the couple preaches, according to the article.

With Christmas approaching, the couple is finding a hard time joining in the holiday cheer as they continue to mourn the loss of their oldest son, according to the Northwest Herald. Because of this, they will be holiday a special “Blue Christmas” church service this Sunday, Dec. 20, at 5 p.m.

“[We can] provide a space for people to come and acknowledge their pain, and know that it’s OK, but also embrace hope for the future,” Lisa Orris told the Northwest Herald. “There may be these awful things happening in our lives, but anybody struggling to find joy will be able to come and sit and reflect and listen.”

The Blue Christmas service is meant to be reflective and counselors and hospice chaplain will be on hand following the service for anyone who needs to talk, according to the article.

Read more on the Northwest Herald.

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