Hundreds of community members gathered at the Stonewall Anglican Church of the Ascension on Nov. 29 for the church’s annual Christmas Tea, Bake and Craft Sale.
Community members celebrated the start of the holiday season at the Stonewall Anglican Church of the Ascension on Nov. 29 for their Christmas Tea, Bake and Craft Sale
Kathy Turner of the Church of the Ascension said this year’s turnout surpassed expectations.
“An empty seat could not be found at the Church of the Ascension Annual Christmas Tea,” she shared. “The organizers, Phyllis Barclay and Jeanette Sheasgreen, are proud to organize the tea not only for parishioners but for our greater community and beyond.”
Volunteers from the parish and surrounding area spent days preparing baked goods, fancy sandwiches and handmade crafts for the event, welcoming guests from both near and far. Turner noted many attendees travelled long distances to take part and mark the beginning of the Christmas season.
“People came for the warmth of others and departed with a feeling of gratitude,” she said.
One highlight for Turner was seeing how the event made newcomers feel welcome.
“A new resident to Stonewall was out for a walk, dropped in and loved our event,” she explained. “She left with a love of Stonewall, baked goods and a smile.”
Several draws were held throughout the day, including a food hamper draw won by Kay Blais and Cynthia Klohn and an afghan draw won by Diane Trafiak.
Turner said it’s important to the church to continue this tradition each year, since it offers a chance for the community to reminisce, reconnect and share the spirit of the season.
“There is always tremendous community attendance and support,” she added. “Those who attend leave with a feeling of fellowship, connectedness and warmth.”
