Bring a gift to share the light of joy
St John's Presbyterian Church, in Boksburg, will hold a Carols by Candlight evening on November 17.
Part of the evening, starting at 6.30pm, is to bring gifts for children, to be placed under the Christmas tree.
According to the Rev Lihai Bercovich, of the church, they have adopted Kidz Clinic Bokbsurg as part of their Christmas social outreach.
“We have identified some 239 children, between the ages of two and to 19, who have been sexually abused,” says Bercovich.
“We are, therefore, asking the community to buy appropriate gifts, depending if they choose to support a boy or girl, and the age group.”
The gifts donated on the evening will be handed over the children during a Christmas party arranged for them, on November 29.
“This is good opportunity, not only for the public to enjoy a wonderful evening on November 17, to get into the Christmas spirit, but also to make a difference in the community.”
Bercovich feels strongly that a church must be seen as being active in social upliftment.
“This church has been here for 97 years, but it is shocking that a lot of people do not know about us. We want to change this perception by making things better,” he said.
For this reason, they are already feeding hundreds of people who are on the street with a meal every Thursday, while they also help the poor and less fortunate through their secondhand shop.
As part of the run-up to Christmas, the church will also be holding dinner evenings, where they will be showing their appreciation to those, such as the emergency services, who have played a valuable part in helping the community.
The church is located in Leeuwpoort Street, directly next to the Fire Station.
Those who are interested in donating toys or gifts for November 17, are urged to first call 082 464 0313 or 084 688 7286, to specify if they will be buying for a boy or girl, and what age group they are focusing on.
