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Voluneering at Christmas celebration was a special gift Dear Editor: Angels...S.O.S. Once again I have been blessed by participating in the Feeding Ministry's Christmas party at the First Presbyterian Church in Babylon. It's hard to believe this was the 16th annual event that also includes providing hot meals every Thursday evening for the needy and homeless in Babylon. A warm and loving meal is prepared each week by numerous volunteers from the church and churches in the surrounding area. The angels, dressed as humans, give of their time and talent to provide a family atmosphere, not just nourishing the body but also nourishing the souls of people who are often forgotten. No matter how many gifts we may receive at Christmas, I have never experienced a greater present than the one I am given at this amazing celebration. On Dec. 13 we gathered to prepare for the feast. Days before the donated presents were lovingly wrapped by Dotty Perdue and Molly Blue, two of God's angels. The hall was decorated in holiday style and the tables were set with homemade place mats made by local children along with adorable Christmas mice made by hand as well. By six o'clock the feast began. Hot food, coffee, tea and juices were made available to the nearly 70 people that arrived. Once again Mike DeFabrizio led the festivities with some help from Susan Monticcola who played the piano and regaled us with holiday songs. Our own Santa, Bill Robbie, was available to ho, ho, ho his way through the crowd, giving gifts to all, along with the help of the merriest elf of all, Joni Luccisano, dressed in the ultimate in elf apparel. In addition to gifts, distribution of food bags were available after the party for those who are in need. More than food and gifts, I wish you could have felt the atmosphere in the room on this special night, it's actually palpable. The eyes of these adults outshine the eyes of children and the gratitude they express is the greatest gift that can be given. I wish I could list each name of the 20 staff members that give their time each week and assist with the party as well. I would be afraid to leave someone out; but they know who they are and so does our Savior. In addition to these kind individuals we are blessed to receive help from numerous civic groups and people who generously contribute. Financial support is provided by The First Presbyterian Church and other churches, The Rotary Club and the Lions Club and Long Island Cares and Island Harvest contribute food directly and the list goes on. . . This is truly a community effort that grows throughout the year. I collect presents and gift items each month to donate for the party. It's amazing what you can come up with when you ask your friends and loved ones. My Christmas spirit escalates each year when I look into the eyes of the people at this annual celebration. I see trust, gratitude and love on the face of each person that might otherwise have been forgotten. I intend to make 2008 a continued year of giving. It's the best gift I can give myself. If you would like to get involved or donate to the feeding ministry you may contact Gil Schlerf at the church office at 631-587-5838. Happy New Year to All
Antoinette Maiorini
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