Highlights from 2019 Christmas Fundraiser AuthorAuthorCelina Lam, Mission CentralDate publishedDateDec 5, 2019ThemesCategoriesLocal MissionMissional CommunitiesThis past weekend (November 30, 2019), we held our annual Christmas Fundraiser. We gathered with many familiar with Mission Central and some new friends, too. The evening was filled with food and music, as we journeyed through the story of Christmas together. Our partner for the fundraiser was a local ministry called Theo’s Feast. They are inspired by the physical manifestation of God. From that place is where they combine food and the Gospel together through creatively prepared meals, to help people taste the goodness of the Gospel. Sunday night saw many Christmas story favourites transformed into a neatly prepared dishes—from Frosty the Snowman, to Charlie Brown to the Grinch—each table journeyed through a unique experience of Christmas. People not only heard Jesus’s stories but also tasted the His goodness as the body of Christ.The fundraiser brought communities from all ages and walks of life to collaborate and serve over 100 guests for one special evening. From the kitchen helpers, to plating and serving, each element was a look through the impact of community and hospitality. Along with a 5-course meal, the evening included Christmas jazz music from the Vania Levans Quintet The evening wrapped up with miracle berries and lemon dish, a creative representation of grace and how it changes everything. Once a miracle berry is consumed, lemons become sweet and the usual sour taste disappears. Similarly, once we’ve tasted and seen the grace of God, the sourness of sin is removed from our lives and our restored relationship with the Father turns sweet. We are grateful to everyone who came out this weekend to celebrate the advent season together. We were able to raise over $13,000, with all proceeds going to further collaboration and efforts in discipleship and mission.