Archive

St. Mark’s Church will host annual Christmas Day Dinner

December 21, 2018   ·   0 Comments

By Jasen Obermeyer

For many, Christmas Day is the most magical day of the year. Presents are unwrapped in the morning, families get together in the afternoon, and the pinnacle of the day is reached when family and friends gather around the table to enjoy that mouth watering dinner. 

Unfortunately for others, Christmas is just another day, sometimes a sad one, but St. Mark’s Anglican Church in Orangeville will help spread those magical feelings and moments by hosting their annual Christmas Day dinner for those in need. 

“It’s not just for people who can’t afford or do not have a turkey dinner, but there’s a huge need for people who are alone on Christmas Day, and that includes a huge population of seniors,” says Carol Foley, the St. Mark’s office administrator. “People are just so happy to come here.”

Now in its sixth year, the Christmas dinner has become a very important staple in the community. Last year, 90 meals were prepared, including take-home meals. 

A free full turkey dinner will be provided, with gravy, potatoes, vegetables, candies, desert, and juices, along with carols sung by  the church choir and guests. 

“It’s joyful,” describes Ms. Foley on seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces, driving home the true spirit and meaning of Christmas. “People who have come to serve come year after year because they have enjoyed it so much.”

She would like to mention the contributions from the community for coming together. “It’s not just people from St. Mark’s that come to help out and volunteer, it’s people from all over the community that call to say they want to help. That’s people who serve, people who wash dishes, people who donate food.”

She also thanks Lavender Blue Catering for providing the turkeys, and Parsons’ Florist for the centerpieces for the tables, grateful for their efforts. 

Ms. Foley notes her enjoyment of the dinner actually taking place on Christmas Day. 

“What happens here on Christmas Day is magical. That part is very fulfilling.”

Although names are not required, the organizers ask that guests call ahead to provide the number of people planning to attend, at 519-941-0640. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., the dinner following at 12:30 p.m.

Readers Comments (0)