Christmas Feast Of Friends
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Christmas day's Feast of Friends is a most wonderful experience for Donna Acre during a complex time of the year.
"If you want a feel-good moment, here it is," said the Salvation Army Community Ministries Coordinator.
One-hundred-and-thirty-five people attended last year's feast, scheduled to hit the table this Wednesday (December 25) at 2 p.m. at Tillsonburg's Salvation Army Church (Concession St. West) featuring turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, vegetables and homemade pies; along with Christmas carols, both pianist-accompanied and a cappella.
The event has grown from modest beginnings, 25 or so sitting down several years ago, amidst food and pies enough for several times that amount.
"We almost had more volunteers than guests," Pastor Starr Ferris recalled with a smile.
People of all socio-economic backgrounds break bread together, with last year's eclectic mixture including a woman in a fur coat sharing food and conversation with a homeless person.
"It brings the community totally together," said Acre, noting the 'Feast' has grown in size annually. "It's a great thing and every year, the word gets out a little more.
"People are realizing it's not just for people on limited incomes, but for anyone who would like to get out and share in a Christmas celebration."
The event comes together with financial support from residents of Hickory Hills, and volunteerism including, this year, Chef Christopher Haskell of the Kitchener/Waterloo area, pinch-hitting for Chef Ryan McLean, whose wife is expecting. The balance of the McLean family, perennial supporters of the event from inception, will be in attendance.
Acre emphasizes there is no cost to the feast, but based on the fact some people have insisted on contributing, a collection basket for those who wish to donate is provided.
"But that is not required at all," Ferris reiterated. "We do not ask for money from anyone."
Volunteers are welcomed, for a range of duties from food and hall preparation, through to the much-appreciated clean-up crew.
"I'm like ‘bless you, my children,’" laughed Ferris.
The Feast of Friends has evolved into an inclusive, shared community celebration, but for Acre it's more than that. The Salvation Army's equivalent of a Christmas rush is a physically and mentally-demanding stretch featuring preparation of around 300 hampers for those in need, a process which includes ingestion of 300 stories.
"And they're not happy stories," said Acre, for whom the feast has become her 'favourite time' during the season in part for its cathartic qualities.
"It's very complicated, everyone thinks you have to be happy for Christmas, but a lot of the time, that doesn't happen, and not only because of your income, there are so many variables.
"So for me, to go there and share the joy and hear the laughter helps my Christmas."
Those seeking more information on the event, a ride, or to volunteer are invited to call 519-842-4447.
"Come, just relax and enjoy yourself," Acre concluded in invitation.
"We are remembering the reason for the season," Ferris added. "We have been given the best gift ever, this is a chance to give back in a small way."