Wishing you all a very blessed Christmas

In the Christmas story, as told in Luke, the angel bringing the message of Jesus’ birth is Gabriel. In Jewish thought, Gabriel was the angel of endurance and perseverance.

In what has become known as Mary’s Song, we see the endurance and perseverance of Mary. Mary steps forward into her task with a quiet confidence. She steps into the promise of connection and belonging, and with a hope that goodness will happen.

This year has been yet another where each of us, in some shape or form, have had to endure and persevere. For many in our community, this has been no small feat. Power bills have increased and have accumulated, sometimes becoming completely overwhelming. Children and parents have been repeatedly unwell with COVID, meaning more time off work for parents, many already having exhausted their annual and sick leave. Rental costs have increased and are now often two thirds of the household income, leaving very little for food.

Family Works staff consistently witness individuals and whānau in our community enduring and persevering in the face of significant challenges. Yet, they bravely engage with us with quiet confidence in the promise of connection and belonging, and with a hope that goodness will happen. And it does. It happens every week. It happens because of the resources you contribute.

Your contribution as a volunteer; or participating in an encouraging conversation with someone; or as a donor of funds or gifts of food and helpful items, are all vital acts that enable each of us to endure and persevere together.