A Unique Christmas Celebration 

Christmas celebration in 2020 was different due to the tough and uncertain times.

The Volunteers Without Borders whose annual Christmas Banquet for the less fortunate members of the community in Rockhampton had to be changed following COVID-19 protocol, especially for some of the regular guests who may be more vulnerable to the virus. The Christmas Banquet this year at St Joseph’s Cathedral Corso was called off, as social distancing rules meant there should be no crowds. There was no gathering around the tables, where everyone shared the festive offerings, exchanged pleasantries, enjoyed the atmosphere of camaraderie, meeting new friends and renewing acquaintances.

Preparation of the packages of groceries and packed lunches with the members of Volunteers Without Borders, together with Vicar General Fr Bryan Hanifin.

The Volunteers Without Borders, through the support of Bishop Michael McCarthy and Fr Bryan Hanifin, and regular private and business patrons and donors, took on another approach to share the bounty of the Season, through a simple offering of packed lunches and drinks for those living alone, the homeless and families who are struggling to go through their daily lives, let alone on Christmas Day.

Distribution centre attended by Bishop Michael

and members of Volunteers Without Borders

The 2020 Christmas celebration was unique, although memorable for those who came and joined us and savoured the opportunity to share the joy of giving, the joy of receiving and the joy of togetherness in the face of COVID-19.

Linda Esguerra