St James, Woodside in Horsforth is holding an alternative service for those who might not being feeling full of seasonal joy, and want a quieter event to mark Christmas and its meaning.
Vicar, the Revd Richard Dimery, says, "We recognise that for some Christmas is an unbearably difficult time - maybe because someone they love has died, either recently or some time ago, and Christmas is when it hurts the most.
"It's hard to acknowlege the pain of loss when all around is pressure to celebrate and be 'full of festive cheer'. So if this is you, you're warmly invited to the 'Longest Night' - a space in church for those who mourn to come to the crib to ponder and pray.
"The church will be open on 22 December from 7-9.30pm. People can drop in to light a candle and sit - just to 'be' anonymously, or there will be a few people around who would be happy to listen to you and say a pray for you if you wish.
"At 7.45pm there will be a simple service with carols and an opportunity to place a candle at the crib, acknowledging the pain you hold, but marking Christmas with hope."