This activity was started because so often many young people get busy with Christmas fun and activities and forget that not everyone is invited to parties, and that Christmas can be a lonely time for the elderly or those who are alone. A "formal" tea was open to the congregation. This also allowed children to participate in an event perhaps very formal for them, but in familiar surroundings (the church building).

Two ideas that can be used for Advent Projects to help decorate the church.

What you will need and how to make a container to hold your treasures and your wishes and goals for the New Year.

The holiday tablecloth is something my family has used for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter - holidays that we are together for. It is made of heavy muslin cloth. Everybody writes something to either comment on or something they are thankful for from that year or something to remember from the holiday. We date our comments and sign it. Signing can be a signature or anything that everybody knows is your specialized way of writing or drawing. We have been doing this for about 10 years and it really brings back memories of some of the holidays in the past.