Dear Columban Friends,
Christ's message of hope
I would like to take this opportunity of wishing you all the blessings, peace and happiness of the Christ child.
As we approach Christmas, I am reminded of how Christ came into our world simply and humbly. His message of hope calls us to continue our mission with those who suffer the social stigma attached to being poor.
I would like to thank you for helping to build a fairer and more equal world.
There are many examples of Columbans working hard to build up communities and improve the lives of those in need. Columban Fr Chris Saenz is a parish priest in Chile, who works with parishioners who volunteer their time for many social groups including an Adult Day Facility. The Adult Day Facility program provides transportation, a cooked lunch and daily activities for the elderly of the parish. Columban Fr Willie Lee, is the parish priest in a nearby suburb, and with the help of parishioners, offers many outreach and pastoral services to the poor including, providing lunches 5-days per week for parishioners who do not have enough to eat.
To read more inspiring and moving stories about how your support and donation to the Columban mission enriches the lives of others please read our latest issue of The Far East magazine or Mission News & Views newsletter.
Your donation to the 2014 Columban Christmas Appeal will ensure opportunities can be offered to those who most need your help.
In our missionary work, we are always humbled by the simple lifestyle of those who lack in consumer goods and luxuries, like the parishioners in Chile who are poor themselves. They are faith filled people, giving the little that they have to those who have a greater need.
Donations: Giving to those in need
Each year Columban mission reaches out through their Christmas Appeal to help raise funds for those in need and struggling under the weight of poverty and crisis.
Donate and give online today: columban.org.au/donations or phone the Columban Mission Centre on +61 3 9375 9475. Alternatively, you can mail your donation by downloading our Christmas Appeal 2014 - Donation form (PDF)
I thank you once again for your support and wish you a blessed and peaceful Christmas.
With every blessing,
Fr Gary Walker
Regional Director, Australia and New Zealand
Thank you for supporting the 2014 Columban Christmas Appeal.