From the Muncie Mission Volunteer Newsletter, December edition:
Christmas at the Mission, wow! How do I put into words a vivid picture of what Christmas is like here at MMM?
I would begin by introducing you to our “Father Christmas”-Ray Raines. He absolutely loves this time of year. He wants everyone who enters the building to get a sense of Christmas. The decorations - the music - the goodies - traditions. But more than that, and paramount - the true meaning of Christmas – the very Son of God becoming Man. He’s into it all.
Many of the residents at the Mission have come from pasts that haven’t included celebrating this holiday, or any for that matter. This time of year brings back bad memories, a sense of loneliness or that nagging feeling of “what could have been”.
Ray and the men’s staff share the story of Christ’s birth and God’s love for each and every man who comes our way. The special gifts that are bought for each resident are wrapped beautifully and given to him at our Christmas Eve party. For some, these may be the only wrapped gifts they have ever received. What fun to watch those men, with the awe of a child, gazing at their pile of presents. Needless to say, it brings tears to my eyes. Some who have provided the gifts include cards or special notes of encouragement. And that brings tears to their eyes! It is truly a magical time of God blessing each of us.
It goes without saying, that some 30 needy families have experienced the same feeling of gratitude when they received a heaping basket of items for daily living along with some surprises! Struggling families are faced with difficult decisions these days.
If you have helped with gifts or goodies or time or monies, please know how you have honored us by your outpouring of love and support. I just wish all of you could see the entire season here at MMM; it is a miracle to see the Heavenly Father at work touching the hearts of so many – through so many. Thank you for all you have done for the lonely and broken of our world.
