MADAM,

I am writing on behalf of all involved in organising Christmas Together, which provides a lunch on Christmas Day for any who may be lonely or struggling.

I need to express our gratitude and amazement at the support given by the community in the past weeks. We have received significant funding from Waitrose Green Tokens, Monmouth New Businesses, a collection by staff at Monnow Vale, a local individual who came around to our home with a most generous donation, and other gifts on the day. Local businesses and individuals gave sausages, gravy, Christmas cakes, and even pantomime tickets!

Furthermore, we have been flooded with offers of help from local people, including one lady who came to wash up throughout the event, others who gave lifts to guests, one who wrapped presents, some who prepared the vegetables, and so on. And I have not even mentioned the team on the day who cooked, served, provided music, and acted as hosts, nor the visit by the Mayor and his party which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. So many people came forward to help that we could not accommodate everyone, but we are very grateful to you all.

The event itself was the biggest we have done and went incredibly well. Numerous people have spoken about how much they enjoyed themselves, and one touching comment was that it had been the best Christmas they had had for many years.

It was tiring but wonderfully fulfilling and the selfless way local people gave themselves was a heart-warming reflection of the central story of Christmas, that Jesus Christ came down from the glory of heaven to live among us and eventually give his life for us.

Ian Roberts

(Pastor, Wyesham Christian Fellowship)