St. Thomas’ will light up the annual outdoor Christmas Tree on Sunday, December 6, St. Nicholas Day. Due to the restrictions because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we will not have a gathering at the church for the lighting of the tree. We will have photos posted on our Facebook page and on our website. We invite you to walk or drive by the church to see the lights. They will be on every night in Advent and Christmas (Dec.3-Jan.6). The lights remind us of the great hope we have in Jesus’ promise to return. .
We plan to have a bigger Christmas tree than usual and there will be more lights on the tree and this year on our church building. There will be wrapped symbolic “presents” under the tree. Each “present” will have the name of one of our community partners on it to symbolize the work that we are doing together.
Our Lights of Hope project intends to collect non-perishable food items or warm clothing to help people in our neighborhood. The items will be delivered through South Vancouver Neighbourhood House. Clothing can be new or gently used. Needed clothing includes scarves, hats, gloves, socks, and jackets. Please bring your donation to the church during the following times:
Monday December 7 9:30 to 4:30
Tuesday December 8 9:30 to 4:30
Wednesday December 9 9:30 to 4:30
Thursday December 10 9:30 to 4:30
Or Saturday December 12 10 am to 2 pm
Please use the ramp entrance on St. Margaret’s street. Use the automatic door opener and place your items in the box just inside the door of the church. Strict COVID-19 precautions will be in place during the drop-off. Please wear a mask. We will be taking everything we collect to South Vancouver Neighborhood House for them to distribute. Thank you for helping to make the holidays merrier for families in our community who need a little extra help!
In addition, we will deliver notices to 140 of our neighbours that wish them a Happy Holiday and invite them to also participate in our Lights of Hope food and clothing drive.
We need to remind our neighborhood that even though there is a pandemic, St. Thomas is still a vibrant parish working together with our community.