The temperature was 26 degrees below zero, yet during Blue Christmas Candlelight Vigil in December 2025, hearts turned toward those carrying a deeper chill — the ache of losing loved ones to suicide, homicide or illness; words left unsaid; promises never kept and memories that rest heavily on their hearts as they grieve.
Across Alaska, and especially on the Far North Slope, resilience is a way of life, but resilience comes at a cost. While all forms of loss are painful, suicide remains especially devastating — and tragically common — within these communities.
Arctic Adventist Church members were particularly blessed with the opportunity to gather in remembrance and healing. Blue Christmas Candlelight Vigil saw record-breaking attendance — so much so that organizers ran out of candles, a stark contrast to previous years when supplies were plentiful.
Frank James, Moravian Revival Church pastor, led the gathering in prayer, and participants spoke the names of their missing loved ones aloud in a moment of profound silence, breath visible in the frigid air, with participants lost in their own thoughts and memories.
Attendees surrounded a commissioned snow sculpture titled "Lifted by Generations," depicting the traditional blanket toss. The artwork symbolized how elders and leaders elevate younger generations, reinforcing the message that connection and support can prevent suicide.
The vigil, hosted in Utqiaġvik, was also attended virtually through a watch party in Wainwright, with plans to expand to all North Slope villages at the request of the North Slope Borough government.
Prior to the vigil, James Wisland, pastor from Arctic Resource Center for Suicide Prevention, led a grief seminar on Saturday afternoon that was well attended and deeply impactful. The discussion was open, raw and honest, centered on what it is like to lose a child or loved one to suicide and how to navigate a world forever changed by such tragedy. Talking circles were facilitated by counselors from the health department, providing a safe and supportive space for participants to share their experiences and emotions.
Each year, this event seeks to connect people with resources, support and one another. Our goal is to change the dialogue around grief — to make it okay to talk about it, name it and share it openly within our communities. By bringing together faith-based organizations, healthcare providers, cultural leaders and community members, the community created a safety net for those who are most vulnerable. “When people feel connected, supported and valued, they do not die by suicide,” organizers emphasized.
Consider what you can do within your own community to open conversations around grief and loss and to support those who need it most. Doing so not only blesses others, but also strengthens community bonds and saves lives.
Frank James, Moravian Revival Church pastor, opens the vigil with prayer.
Arctic Church members serve refreshments after the vigil.
The "Lifted by Generations" ice sculpture symbolizes community elders and leaders elevating the next generation.
Participants share a moment of silence, remembering loved ones lost to suicide.
Attendees surround the ice sculpture that honors those they have lost.
