The Salvation Army Korean congregation in Los Angeles has once again set out to give Christmas gifts to its neighbors in the community. The church hosted a Christmas service and meal on Monday, during which toys and groceries were also given to the families who attended.
Last year, some 120 families and 400 individuals attended the event, but this year, some 400 families and 1,200 people were registered. In one year, the event grew three times in scale.
The church confirmed with those who were registered whether their financial status is considered to be low-income, and then officially invited them to the event. Despite the fact that the event began at 10 AM on a Monday, 600 people quickly filled up the church sanctuary. After the worship service together, various gifts were given, and the participants spent time together over lunch.
Meanwhile, the Salvation Army is also collecting donations through its distinct red Christmas kettles in the Los Angeles community.
"Due to economic difficulties that many are facing, it's been difficult gathering donations this year," said Ju Chul Lee, who leads the Salvation Army congregation. "But there are those who are undergoing even more difficult circumstances than us."
This article was translated by Rachael Lee. For the original in Korean, visit kr.christianitydaily.com.
