So I'm finally taking the time to add a few holiday stories...forgive the delay! I'll put the date on a few of these and make sure they are posted chronologically!To kick off the holidays our church had a myriad of events going on throughout November and December, my two top favorites - packing Thanksgiving baskets and the neighborhood Christmas party!
Thanksgiving Baskets
On November 17th we packed about 55 Thanksgiving boxes at the church. The most amazing part of it all was how many people came out to help! We had at least as many people as boxes we packed. I constantly found myself stopping and looking around at the mix of people who came out to help. Church families, members of the community who also go to church, box recipients, and neighborhood kids from the youth group. Giving really is cause for celebration - so clearly evident as smiles and laughter plastered every face at the church that morning. We took some time for fellowship and eating before we delivered the boxes. It was such a blessing to give families a chance to feast on Thanksgiving...to be able to communicate God's love through the simple act of giving.
This is Daquan...a former student of mine who has been frequenting church, youth group, and the community center for a while now. It's amazing how, even after having a really difficult time at school last year, this kid has started to transform. I see a different kid before me every time I see him...and am constantly amazed at the work the Lord's done in him. He insisted on packing a box for his mom ... so here he is with his proud smile and the box he carried home.Ayuda Community Christmas Party
On December 2nd the block two blocks north and one block west of my house was transformed.
For one night all seemed still on the block and rather than sirens, laughter and Christmas music blasted. Sounds of kids scuffling around in a football game, giggling as decorations went up on Christmas trees, and the crackling of a wood fire provided a time to celebrate. Ayuda Community Center hosted a neighborhood Christmas Party with assistance from a neighboring church and the community garden. Three Christmas trees were decorated in the community garden. Tinsel went up around the fence. Extension cords were pulled out and light strands were plugged in. As the sun set the block took on the glow of a downtown celebration but with a ton more heart, simplicity and appreciation. The estimate was at about 70 people from the neighborhood who took part in the night. After decorating we used the church building to snack on cookies and hot cocoa, make Christmas cards, swags, and an awesome homemade LED light ornament. 
S'more's finished off the evening as well as a raffle for a Christmas tree to one of the kids. Daquan won it...and then closed the night by portraying his skills on Ryan's mike and stereo system. This is what it's all about...Check out the link below for the video of the night...it'll warm your heart!
Highlight of the night: My neighbors came - the whole family!
http://www.jumpcut.com/fullscreen?id=4D53B382A42411DCB8A7000423CEF5B0&type=movie
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