Communities connect at Christmas

During this blessed time of year it’s easy to get caught up in the busy, making it more important than ever to make time for quiet reflection and prayer. Pope Francis said, “Joy, prayer and gratitude are three ways that prepare us to experience Christmas in an authentic way.”

Community involvement and connection is one way to break the barriers to education. When a community feels united in purpose they are more apt to work together and achieve positive outcomes for all. One of the many ways we build communities is through our Christmas money fund which pools donations from generous supporters to ensure everyone can have a Christmas celebration.

Last year at our Mombasa sponsor site in Kenya, Christmas time was a special moment to remember the teachings of the Holy Bible and to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the spirit of building a loving society, the site staff along with the community took time to care and share with one another. During their Christmas party children sang Christmas carols, recited poems and danced to beautiful Christmas songs.

“It was a happy day to see our children having fun together with their families,” remarked Sr. Jane, Site Director.

The Christmas celebrations were attended by 551 families. Sponsored families enjoyed sodas, sweets and were gifted a Christmas food basket with 2kgs (4.40lbs.) of rice, 4kgs (8.82lbs.) of flour and cooking oil to celebrate with their siblings at home. The site staff also shared their Christmas celebration with children from a local orphanage and donated maize flour and cooking oil, biscuits for breakfast, hygiene items and toiletries.  

“I want to take this opportunity with my sincere humility to thank our loving and caring sponsors for granting a Merry Christmas to our families,” says Sr. Jane. “May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.”            

Thank you for helping create community connections in our sites. Your support of Christmas money builds the strength of communities though a united Christmas celebration for all. May you all have a blessed Christmas with your friends and family this year.