We learned about this annual family-friendly concert shortly after I had separated from my ex-husband in 2006. My friend Norm's daughter was singing in the show, and he thought the sound of children singing would lift our spirits, and it certainly did. This will be our fifth consecutive year of attending it, if all goes according to plan.
Fiona and Shrek greet church visitors in the lobby. The evening begins with an inspiring and tear-jerking slideshow of ongoing mission-style work to families in need. A few songs in, the Grinch works his way through the seated crowd. We listen to the sermon. Towards the end of the show, they light up a huge Christmas tree, and fill it with heavenly song.
Both my girls were orphaned by circumstances beyond their control: for the eldest, it was Chinese politics; for the youngest, African poverty. They question social justice. While they both probably still have living birth parents, only the youngest retains memories of them.
When I tried to cancel our visit to this year's event, my eldest protested vehemently and came up with a strategy for containing the youngest. She likes the reunions of families separated by distance and harsh circumstances. I am pretty sure that these reunions are restricted to parishioners and/or believers; through her eyes, I can better see the appeal.
There are many elements to the show including free hot chocolate and religious recruitment in the church basement after the show. We skip that part, and also take a pass on handouts proffered. There is no cost associated with the show; rather, it's a pay-or-give what you can. We take food for the local food bank, and a bit of cash for their charities.
There are many elements to the show including free hot chocolate and religious recruitment in the church basement after the show. We skip that part, and also take a pass on handouts proffered. There is no cost associated with the show; rather, it's a pay-or-give what you can. We take food for the local food bank, and a bit of cash for their charities.
