Embracing the festive season, the SSE students and devotees of Victoria Park Sai Centre took time for a special ecumenical celebration of the holidays. The program began with a presentation by the SSE students, which recounted the time-honored stories of Christmas Day. They specifically expounded on the meaning of Christmas allegories (as found in the Bible) and emphasized the significance of the storied events. They also presented the meaning of other sacred occasions relevant to this time – such as those of Judaism and others. Several of the centre’s elders also elaborated on these ideals in further talks and study circles – emphasizing the truly unified sentiment of love which pervades this season. The event concluded with bhajans and a special visit by Santa Claus, who gave gifts to the children and spread his unique sort of cheer.

To many devotees, the event was a reminder of the joys of the seasons, but also that many among us may not be able to share in those joys. Devotees therefore took part in numerous service projects, such as a holiday food drive. In previous years, Victoria Park members have volunteered at Food Distribution Centres, Refuge Missions for the Homeless and even hosted an Organ Donation Registration Drive during this time. We look forward to reinitiating these service projects in the coming months.