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An opportunity was welcomed by the Relief Society sisters (women's organisation) of the Blacktown Ward (congregation) of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They chose to ‘Light the World’ by gift-wrapping donations for the Blacktown Mayoress Community Christmas Gift Appeal.
The sisters of the Blacktown Ward in the Hebersham Stake (diocese), along with other wonderful volunteers, ‘got it all wrapped up’ when joining Mrs. Anne Bali, Blacktown Mayoress, in wrapping numerous gifts to be delivered to some wonderful charities.
The charities and organisations which benefited include: (1) 'Act for Kids', which provides free support services to children and families with at risk children, child abuse and neglect; (2) 'MacKillop Family Services,' provides support to vulnerable, disadvantaged or disabled children and their families; and (3) Blacktown’s Sister City partner, Liverpool Plains Shire Council in Quirindi. Many families living within the Liverpool Plains Shire Council have been struggling as a result of the drought.
"I thought of President Thomas S. Monson when he asked, 'What gift would God have me give to Him, or to others at this precious season of the year?'" said one of the participating Church members.
Jenni Parsons responded to her beautifully when she said, "Having a tender caring heart as our gift to the Saviour is our way of making our spiritual journey to Bethlehem. What could I, in return, give to the Saviour, as I thought of Him being born in a stable, and cradled in a manger? He lived for us, and He died for us."
As Jenni participated in this service, she went on to say, “A few of us were quite thoughtful while wrapping, thinking about those who have been struggling through numerous issues this year, and that through sacrificing a few hours of our time, we could help bring a smile to faces of friends that we may never get to meet."
Almost 3,000 gifts have been delivered through this appeal this year to those less fortunate, thanks to the generosity of the Blacktown community.
Blacktown City Mayoress Anne Bali, said, “It has been very heart-warming to see the support of the Blacktown community [including the Hebersham Stake], in providing presents that will go a long way toward putting a smile on the face of those who are having a tough time....to be able to positively impact their lives by simply sending a gift is a great honour for me. We have wrapped a number of gifts including books, toys, clothing and food. I hope they love their gifts as much as we have loved sending them over.”