CHRISTMAS can be a challenging time, particularly if you find yourself alone, but Living Hope Community Church is working hard to make the day pass more quickly for those who would otherwise be by themselves on Christmas Day.
For the third year in a row, the church is opening its doors on December 25 and inviting everyone to join them for a free, three-course Christmas meal.
‘This is for anybody who would otherwise spend Christmas on their own, that’s at the heart behind it,’ said church pastor Roussean Moss.
‘It’s a free Christmas lunch for anyone who would like to share it with others and have a good time.’
This is more than just a meal, there will be Christmas carols, games, and Santa Claus will be making an appearance with a few gifts.
Last year, more than 40 came to the Christmas Day lunch – this year they are expecting more than 65 and are inviting any others who would like to take part to get in touch.
Organiser Dawn Killa said: ‘We are hoping to reach many more within the community, all with different circumstances, those on their own, families, the elderly, single mums and dads. We know that circumstances can change very quickly in society today and as a community we share a responsibility to love and care for each other.’
Rousseau said: ‘It started from a place of realising everybody in the church seemed to have reached the special time of Christmas then there was this pocket of people who can not identify with that.
‘It’s crazy the church doors close at Christmas. We are having a carol service from 10.30am to 11.30am, from then on the church is open to 4pm or 5pm.
‘For us, it’s putting your money where your mouth is, for a lot of the guys we have our own families, we will sacrifice that to those who do not have it. It’s such a privilege to be able to do it.’
In recent months, church members have been donating funds to buy food for the lunch, but would like help with items that can be given as gifts. They are still appealing for businesses to donate any items that can be given as presents. The lunch starts at 1.30pm and transport can be provided to and from the church.
For more information, to donate a gift, put down your name, inquire about transport, or to suggest a neighbour or friend who would like to attend the lunch, call Dawn on 451940.