CHRISTMAS - His Presence among us

Many people have shared how this season has been for them a Christ - mas - knowing the presence of God among us. We have had some special times together, which for many will be held onto dearly. For many too, the opportunity to provide a family for many without on Christmas Day is also very special, and helps us put our belief into action - on a day when many are not easily thinking of others. It was estimated (although not totally acturate because numbers were up and down all day) that we served about 150 meals on this day. As we looked around us we wondered how on earth we had managed such a day at our own church centre in the past. This year we were granted use of the East Stour School, and what a blessing that was. There was space - there was room - there was safety!!!!! The day commenced at 9am as people started arriving, although some had been there behand preparing, and some even there the day before setting up. Meeting the guests is always a privilege and as well as welcoming back familiar faces from the past, we also welcomed new faces for the first time. This being our 4th year, we have a good regular attendance, and as well as some of the faithful volunteers returning, again we were able to welcome some new faces to the team. One commented on how amazed she was at such a miltary operation! To many of us it was just chaos that we tried to get through. God was gracious - providing us with enough drivers, enough food and gifts to give to people as they left, and enough time to pack a lot into one day - from a carol service, led by captain Sue, to our four course Christmas dinner, to entertainment, games and quizzes, a christmas tea and concluding with a couple of songs. Everyone mucked in together, and the day seemd to go well without too many errors and problems. Whilst it is hard work, we do thank God for this opportunity. Many burdened people shared the day, and many left unburdened. One lady commented on how she enjoyed watching the sea of faces filled with happiness. A number of our guests were without homes, other on low income, others with very little family - if any - so indeed we were able to provide one big family for so many people. And what a family it was.

Our sincere prayer is that we will be able to have brought hope to those dear people, and that they will remember long after this season, the presence of Christ among them, as we continued to express to them that this is just what this season celebrates - and can be known beyond such a day as well.