In the Midlands, there was an Advent party on Saturday 26th November organised in the parish local to one of the Focolares. The all-age gathering worked on crafts, shared a meditation on Christmas (Link here?) and celebrated together.
On the same day, some of the local Focolare community in Yorkshire met in Leeds, with the theme of ‘Yes to God’ as we prepare for the birth of Jesus. A mosaic was made representing community with all its sorrows and joys, beautiful together.
In Hurst Green, Lancashire, a very diverse group gathered on Sunday 27th November to make gifts for the refugee centre in Burnley. Many were new to each other, but a lovely family atmosphere was built. The afternoon began with hot drinks and cake, followed by a time of reflection. Some then enjoyed a walk together, and others worked on preparing the gifts.
Meanwhile, families in Liverpool had a workshop at the Focolare house making tiny cribs containing a model of baby Jesus. The gifts, containing a reflection ‘They have left Jesus out’ will be offered to passers-by in the city centre on Saturday 17th December.
