We’re not counting the days… but it’s only 162 until Christmas!
Each year, our sites joyfully look forward to celebrating Christ. Last Christmas, Hemalatha and her family celebrated at home as well as with their parish community.
“We are deeply grateful for the Christmas fund we received from Chalice, which made our celebrations even more special,” Hemalatha says.
Hemalatha lives in a small village with her husband Srinivas, son Moksha, and daughter Gnanasundari near our Mangalagiri sponsor site in India.
“We are a happy family, living simply but joyfully,” says Hemalatha. Srinivas is a painter, and Hemalatha works as a cook. They are grateful that 10-year-old Moksha has a Chalice sponsor.
Their church organized an inter-community dance competition and talent show with skits and carols. Moksha and Gnanasundari won second place! Hemalatha cheered when Father Bhaskar presented their prize.
On Christmas Eve, Fr. Bhaskar and Sr. Gracy from the Good Shepherd Sisters visited their home for carol singing, bringing the baby Jesus statue with them.
“Santa Claus also stopped by, handing out sweets,” says Hemalatha. They attended the midnight Mass; their priest delivered a meaningful message “about the true spirit of Christmas, celebrating the gift of God’s love through Jesus, who came to bring light to the world.”
After Mass, they all returned home “to a festive dinner of biryani and sweets, and our home was decorated with a star.”
“This season is not only a time for rejoicing but also for giving thanks. We remembered and prayed for our sponsor’s family and the Chalice staff,” she says.
Giving ahead means we’re ready to deliver smiles by December. Click here to help more children create Christmas memories that last a lifetime and make this 2025 season extra jolly!