By Brendan Rees
Struggling families and those in need will be welcomed with open arms at Hampton Park Uniting Church on Christmas Day as it celebrates its 10th annual Christmas lunch.
Hampton Park Uniting Church Reverend Mat Harry said so often people needed a great deal of support and nearly all support services were closed over the Christmas break.
“This is precisely the time when the wonderful volunteers at Uniting Place Hampton Park step into the gap,” he said.
“At 11.30 on Christmas Day, the doors will swing wide open to welcome in about 120 guests. Typically, these will not be strangers, but people we have spent much time with over the year, sharing stories and eating with each Thursday at Uniting Place and providing groceries to each week, as we do life together.
“Although, there may be some new people we have not met before, they will be embraced as part of this most welcoming of families,” Rev Harry said.
He said for many people this time of year may be “very painful” triggering feelings of stress, anxiety and grief, adding: “Those who are experiencing financial stress can feel totally excluded from Christmas”.
He said everyone would be treated to great entertainment, a lovely traditional two-course sit-down meal, and a warm sense of belonging at the lunch.
Rev Harry said the Christmas lunch was the perfect opportunity for those who may feel lonely to enjoy some company.
“Last year one of our guests Roy said ‘it was the best Christmas present anyone had given me in the last 20 years’.”
Rev Harry said for the past decade the success of their Christmas lunch relied on the work of dedicated volunteers.
“Those who welcome and listen; those who put up decorations; those who cook; those who pack up; and even those who clean the toilets – because everyone does it, so someone will have to do it.
“Our volunteers are everyday heroes who are pleased to be able to give their time to others as the most valuable present they can give. Indeed to make a little more ‘joy in the world’.”
The church will host a meal on Christmas Day, inviting the whole community at Hampton Park Uniting Church, 1 Coral Drive, Hampton Park, starting at 11.30am (RSVP 8 December).
If you would like to volunteer on Christmas Day or be a part of the 10th celebration of Christmas Lunch please contact 9799 7994 or email narrehamptonparkuc@bigpond.com
