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The Spirit of Christmas, inspired by the ‘Light the World’ initiative of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was evident at Macarthur Stake (diocese) chapel on 1 December 2018. Representatives from Shining Stars Foundation, Campbelltown Ghost Scouts (special needs scouts) and Community Links Wellbeing were in attendance at the event. Contributions from this event will be given to these groups, as well as to two other local charitable organizations, Turning Point and Prison Fellowship. All of these organisations have firm relationships with the Macarthur Stake.
The afternoon of events included: children’s games, an extensive Nativity exhibition, service projects, and a Christmas display from the Philippines. The event concluded with a musical devotional.
Children excitedly engaged in all the activities available. The Perler beads was a favourite of Kensi, a Ghost Scout, who came along with her parents and scout leaders. Sister Lagoudakis of Wollongong Ward (congregation) said, “The children were very creative.”
Smiles continued in the hall where adults were making and assembling hundreds of items to be distributed to individuals and families in need.
To share the traditions of Christmas in the Philippines, Flor and Zaldy Gonzaga of Dapto Ward displayed decorations and delicious food to be sampled. “In the Philippines,” said Sister Gonzaga, “we would wake at midnight to open presents and have a feast. On Christmas day we would visit relatives.”
The devotional that followed was the highlight of the evening and featured talented singers from the stake. The congregation viewed this year’s four 'Light the World' videos and heard ‘interviews’ with Mary (Jemma Perritt), Anna (Edna McKeown) and Wise Men (Damien Standring and Kashif Rizvi) who presented themselves to the group with both sincerity and humour.
President Morgan Jones, of the McArthur stake, expressed his debt of gratitude for the gifts and donations to the community groups. “As we spread Christmas cheer and help our fellowman, we are doing Christ’s work.”
The members of the McArthur Stake, through music, words and service reflected that, 'Jesus is the reason for the season.'