Faith in the Community: We're bringing Christmas joy to care homes
by John Twine, chaplain to the older generation, St Simon's Church, Southsea
Christmas is one of those times when it’s good to think of those less fortunate than we are.
One of those groups is those who will mark the festive period as residents in care homes for the elderly. It’s easy to forget them, with the understandable emphasis on Christmas celebrations with children and young families.
During the year, a group of us from St Simon’s Church in Southsea, make regular visits to care homes within Southsea. We carry out a small service which includes a few hymns, a Bible reading, a short talk, and prayers. It’s always appreciated.
Within three of the care homes, I also offer a monthly visit with a theme called Memory Lane. I have a supply of resources myself, but I also use themed memory boxes from Portsmouth Central Library which include items that stimulate memories of times gone by.
During our December visits, we provide a variation with a Christmas theme. This involves the singing of carols, and others from the St Simon’s congregation are encouraged to join in with this.
In two of the care homes, we bring in Andrea, our children’s and families’ pastor, with some of the children from our toddler groups, and some parents.
We present a combination of songs, carols, the Christmas message and activities, which allows residents, visitors, staff, children and parents to engage with each other if they wish. They might clap along to songs, wave coloured silk scarfs and sing along together.
This creates a wonderful inter-generational atmosphere, and provides a chance for everyone to share in the festive excitement and love that fills the room.
It is such a joy to see the residents clearly loving the presence of children, with the Christmas tree lights sparkling, the parents so proud of their children, and the children – with Andrea’s help – delivering the true message of Christmas.
I also love to experience the reaction of the visiting relatives, and the staff, who can share in these experiences. We can chat at the end to anyone who wants to chat.
It’s great to know that Christmas is a time for people from the youngest to the oldest, and from all sorts of backgrounds, to experience the love and joy of Jesus together – just like one big family.
ST SIMON’S CHURCH, Waverley Road, Southsea, PO5 2PW
www.st-simons.church