Christmas Homecoming in Maple Ridge
On Sunday, December 22, Advent IV, St John the Divine, Maple Ridge held a very special Christmas Homecoming service. 130 neighbourhood households received hand delivered postcard invitations to this fun event! The morning service featured favourite carols sung under handmade snowflakes, and the festive reception afterward included door prizes, delicious food, and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and their elves, who had a small gift for everyone!
Planning and preparation was led by our Groundwork team - Tonya Bayne, Rosemary Stasiuk, Janet Coughlin, Lisann Gurney, and Rev. Laurel Dahill - supported by the entire congregation. Because of the parish-wide participation, our neighbours, guests, and visitors were able to get to know our parish in both prayer and fellowship.
The goal of the Groundwork special project was to create something designed to increase membership. The sanctuary of St. John the Divine was filled to capacity, and overflow seating was used to accommodate everyone.
IMAGES
- The Clauses, elves and more
- Seasonal window treatments with the Maggi
- The Chancel is beautifully decorated
- Folks in the nave under the snowflakes x 2
- The hall is ready for the guests
- Folks enjoying the reception
- Vicar, the Reverend Laurel Dahill and the Clauses.