CHRISTMAS AND OTHER NEWS

DiAnna Olsen enjoyed playing with the boys and girls who attended the annual Christmas party.

DiAnna Olsen from Minnesota flew down to Mexico for the annual church Christmas party which was held at Jose and Lupita's house. Since we were late in arriving on the mission field this season because of Lloyd's back surgery, DiAnna took care of the annual Christmas event including making Christmas baskets for needy families, purchasing gifts for Pastor Gerardo and his family and bagging treats for the children who attended the party.

Pastor Gerardo gave a short Christmas message before activities started and then he gave an invitation for those with needs to come forward for prayer.  Miriam then led a short time of worship.

Miriam led a time of worship at the Christmas party.

Several of the women of the church served everyone the traditional tamales along with spicy bean soup, guacamole, lettuce and tomatoes.  Tamales are a special treat for every holiday in Mexico.  There was a sheet cake filled with whipped cream and topped with fruit salad.  Another tradition - hot fruit punch was also served.

After everyone had finished eating, the children were lined up to receive small toys and bags of candy.  There was a lot of excitement and a lot of good fellowship during the whole time.

The children were admiring each other's gifts.

There were children present who have been faithful to Sunday School for years.  They came alone, always praying that some day their parents will join them.

This Holiday Season is a great time for the church to reach out with love to the community.  The party was free to everyone who wished to attend.  Everyone heard the old but good news of Christ's birth and everyone had opportunity to receive Him into their hearts.  And that's the greatest gift of all.

Boys and girls were lined up youngest first so everything was done orderly.  There was plenty for everyone.