IT’S all change for the annual Christmas Day Dinner at the River of Life Church this year.
Their purchase of St Mary’s Church buildings means that the church hall, on St Mary’s Street/Annan Road, will be the new venue for the free meal, which is now in its 21st year.
Pastor Mark Smith said: “This new location means we can accommodate even more people on this most special day. It’s open and free to all who’d otherwise be alone or is finding this time of year difficult.
“There’s no need to book; just come along – we always make sure there’s plenty for all!”
Thanking all who make it possible, he added: “Each year we’re incredibly moved by the generosity and goodwill of local people. We’re also very thankful to Kilnford Barns, Dumfries Lions Club and many others who give generously to enable us to do these things without charge.
“We tend to celebrate Christmas through an excess of everything; food, presents, family, leisure and entertainment. All these things are great; Christmas is a time of feasting and celebration, but it’s important we also remember people who don’t have much, whether that be in terms of a home, family, money or friends.
“At River of Life, we aim to extend the love of God, in the spirit of our Saviour’s birth, to bring people into a warm, loving, caring and fun-filled environment for the big day. We want everyone to feel included and valued. We want every person who accepts our open invitation, to feel a tangible sense of the love of God.
The church is also holding a morning service from 11 am to 12 noon on the 25th, with carols and readings.
And on Christmas Eve they will be running their usual food giveaway at their railway station venue from 7 pm. It will feature a large amount of food collected from Aldi, M&S, Tesco and Lidl, which they didn’t manage to sell before the holidays.
In addition, their Pantry free food drop-in is open at 7 pm every day through the festive season, apart from Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. Everyone is welcome.
n Anyone interested in volunteering at the Christmas Day meal, should call Mark on 07710 111727.
