Christmas is a time to be merry, but it is not just all about gifts. But to every child presents are a big deal. Therefore, in keeping with the season, a warm Christmas party was organized by the Parish Integral of Human Development Ministry (PIHD), at the Community Hall of SJC Sentul on the 20th December 2015.
This Christmas party started off with an opening prayer and a welcome speech given by our very own parish priest Fr George PackiaSamy. His speech made all those present here feel very special.
The program continued with the choir as they joyfully sang Christmas Carols and danced. Both children and their families were entertained. The Christmas party was completed with the arrival of Santa Claus with a bag full of goodies.
The Youth Ministry had organized fun activities and games for the children.
The chairperson of PIHD ministry, Mr Edwin Alpouns said approximately 200 families were gathered here to make the event a successful one. He also added that over 200 children, both local as well as refugees/migrants, walked away with Christmas gifts, which were school supplies; such as school bags, uniforms and shoes. Christmas came early for these children and it felt so good to see them so happy with smiles on their faces.
The underprivileged families were supplied with bags of provision, which was all from the funds contributed and sponsored by our very own parishioners and other generous individuals involved whom annually contributes to the PIHD ministry.
Mr Edwin stated, “It was a dream come true in making this event a memorable and a successful one and it would not have been possible without the help of the PIHD and church members”. However, it is a privilege to see everyone walking away with a gift each but most importantly with a sense of gratefulness.
It is always good to give back to the community and see the children have an amazing Christmas. After all, this is the season of giving, sharing, joy, hope and love.
Our SJC’s Youth Ministry should be commended for orchestrating the event by connecting with the little children. When asked, how does did this Christmas party help touched them? A member of the youth replied that this opportunity has given them a glimpse of seeing people who are less fortunate walk away happily with a gift and it is one of the best feelings I’ve had, “said Ezekiel.
A little boy named Tengchunchoi, aged 10 who lives in Batu Caves attended this party with his mother said that he felt happy and excited as he had got new school bag, uniforms and shoes.
He also said, he enjoyed the party and is feeling the spirit of Christmas all around. Another girl named, Rina Darshini said that in receiving all these new gifts from another person, she feels truly blessed with guidance and support that her needs has been met.
The events of this Christmas party have left all of us truly in awe with the Christmas season this year. The words have truly come alive now in (Galatians 6:2) “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
The birth of Christ is a celebration that must include the less fortunate as this event has help provide food, clothing and provisions to families to join in the joy of the Christmas Season. Christmas isn’t Christmas till it happens in your heart.
It teaches us that Christmas is a time to share our good fortune with our neighbors in need. It is truly amazing just how one can make such a difference in our community today.
By Amanda Pumala.
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