Philippines parishioners continue the tradition of gift-giving to those “in most need” at Christmas time

The members of the Ministry on Social Services of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Nasugbu town, Batangas province, distributed "food packs—the Media Noche package—to approximately 300 families" from December 29 to 31, 2023.

Following this year's appeals for parishioners to share their blessings with those in need, parish secretary Rosalie Dastas stated in an email exchange that the act brought joy to both the benefactors and the recipients.

Leading the undertaking are Monsignor Cecilio Arce, parish priest, and Fr. Johnsen Guevarra and Fr. Bladimir Calingasan, parochial vicars.

In a social media post, they “thanked those who responded to the call of the church for being able to offer during Simbang Gabi (Night Mass) foods that can be prepared for media noche (midnight) for those who are in need.”

This has been a yearly tradition, and appeals for gifts are being announced during Masses from December 15 to 24.

“Thanks to those who brought these gifts to our parish office to help realize our wish for 290 families.  We went beyond this target number because of your good hearts, which are always open to sharing and helping others,” said  Dastas.

The barangay chapel coordinator selects the beneficiaries. The members of the ministry on social services arranged the distribution to more than 300 families in 29 villages, said Dastas, who is also a member of the Daughters of Mary Immaculate, one of the organizations under the ministry on social services.

She said it’s always a fulfilling experience to be able to share with those who are most in need, especially at Christmas time, when the God of Love and Hope is being celebrated. 

“We're praying that next year more individual will participate in this activity, more people share more so that we can help more families in need,” she said.  (MTV)