On Christmas day we opened our home to those who had no-one with whom to share this special day. As the homeless sat at the table prepared for them we, once again, explained the reason we celebrate Christmas. Each one humbly bowed their head in prayer and there were some tears as we listened to Christmas Carols during the meal. We were able to send each of them off with a bag full of food and other items as their Christmas present from the Lord. Also on Christmas day we went to the Police and Fire stations with an especially prepared Christmas dinner and gifts and snacks in appreciation for them working during Christmas.

What a privilege to spend some time with the little patients of the Sarah Fox Convalescent Hospital. The faces of these little ones just lit up when we brought them presents and treats. The staff members of the hospital allowed us extra time with each patient sorry we could talk and play with them after they opened their gifts. Bringing a little Christmas cheer into the wards was both humbling and rewarding for us. We also left gifts for each of the faithful staff members who would be caring for the little patients over the Christmas period. (Note: faces blurred to protect privacy)                                  

We asked our dear friend Annie to gather around 200 children from the Scotsdene/Wallacedene area to come to our special Christmas Party. (We always prepare for more and this time nearly 300 children showed up!) For the event we were able to use the community center, which was a great blessing.  Many hours of great fun were spent by the kids; playing ball  games, bouncing on a jumping castle,  receiving gifts and goodie bags and even having ice-cream. A real treat! But the main highlight for us was being able to show all the children the real Story of Christmas,  explaining Jesus’ mission on earth,  and praying with them to accept the best Christmas gift ever into their own hearts and lives.      

(From Jean, Kristina, and family in France) Over the last week the children have been working hard to make beautiful Christmas cards and cookies to give out at the elderly center here in our town, But due to regulations at the center we were not able to go there as we had planned. Though this was a bit disappointing at first we were reminded of the verse ” all things work together for good to those who love God” (ROM 8:28) The Lord reminded us of a few specific people that would enjoy a visit and a little bit of Christmas cheer. Over the next couple of days we have been able to go to various individuals who got a bunch of yummy homemade cookies, a Christmas card, lots of hugs and a touch of the true Christmas spirit. One lady kept thanking us as we left for her “lovely Christmas gift” (the children’s visit) and others were so pleased that we had visited them We were also invited to join our neighbors for a Christmas service at their home. Everyone was asked to participate in some way during the evening so the children were able to sing “What Can I Give Him” for everyone. Everyone was very touched by it.

Over the Christmas season we packed thousands of goodie bags for children all over Cape Town. Here you see some of our youngest volunteers assisting in packing. Thanks to their cheerful help and the help of our sponsors many, many children were blessed this year!

For the many children at this informal settlement, elements of Christmas that we take for granted – such as snacks and gifts – are often not part of their experience. That’s why we had such a good time giving each of them goodie bags with tasty treats, a set of building blocks for the smaller ones, and a frisbee for the older children! We even had a few soft cuddle toys for the very youngest ones, which they were so grateful for!  All the children and adults also got a few apples to take home, ice lollies, and a Gospel tract with a special Christmas message. God bless one of the older boys who attends our Sunday School; he helped organised the line of chdren and made sure each of them received their Gospel tract. And of course to our friends and sponsors; this is all thanks to YOU!