Christmas Report 2000

     Christmas is one of the most awaited occasions in the country. The celebration of Christmas starts as early as December 16. Christian churches hold "Misa de Gallo" a nine days early dawn service from December 16 to 24. Christmas spirit is felt everywhere. Houses rich or poor are decorated with lanterns and Christmas lights. Christmas remains to be a symbol of hope for most Filipino people.

    Food for the Hungry International/Philippines Child Development Centers conducts an annual Christmas program celebration. It is one occasion awaited by the sponsored children and their families because it is a rare time where CDP families meet together. This is a time of celebration to commemorate the birth of our Lord Jesus. Since some of the children's family members couldn't attend our Bible study, the Christmas program serves as an opportunity for them to know Jesus and hear the Good News. For CDP children and their family members who already knew the Lord, the Christmas program celebration remains a venue of rejoicing, praising and giving thanks to God for His son Jesus Christ.

    As a number of our children and their family members continue to deepen and grow in their faith, reaching out to other needy families has become more evident. Out of their own initiative by conducting fund raising through caroling and solicitation, other needy families in the communities were given food basket and non sponsored children became part of the annual Christmas program. A positive attitude has been continuously noted amongst our sponsored families as they respond and meet the needs of others.

    The Christmas celebration is a full day activity. Children and parents took part in the program by doing special numbers in songs, dance and poems. The manger scene portrayed by our sponsored children is always the main part of the CDP Christmas program. Exchange gift, games and hearty snack makes the program always exciting. Lantern contest brings out the best amongst the participants. The creativity and talent of the Filipino is shown and enhance through this contest.

    Sponsored children were given small Christmas gifts such as apple, orange, candies and chocolates. Children are always delighted to receive any gifts given them.

    For the sponsored family, FHI/Phil. provided food basket containing cheese, noodles, canned goods, milk and frying pan. We are thankful as these food baskets help the families to enjoy fully their Christmas celebration. The love of God becomes more evident to them.

Presentation

Christmas Basket - Cheese, Sausage, Orange Juice, Meatloaf, Corn Beef, Milk, Bihon in Chinese Frying pan