Local Churches Host Holiday Events: Gift Exchanges and Workshops

Several local churches are preparing to celebrate the holiday season with a variety of events designed to foster community spirit and bring joy to attendees. These gatherings include gift exchanges, workshops, and special worship services, offering opportunities for connection and festivity.

CrossPoint Church, located at 214 S. Court St., will host a “Favorite Things” Women’s Christmas Party on December 8 at 18:30. Participants are encouraged to bring three identical wrapped gifts valued between $5 and $10, representing their favorite items from the past year. Registration for the event can be completed online.

On December 1, St. Matthias Roman Catholic Church will hold a winter workshop from 17:30 to 19:30. This workshop will highlight holiday greenery and attendees will receive assistance in creating a 12-inch planter filled with assorted fresh cut greenery. The event takes place at Niemeyers Landscape Supply, and for more details, interested individuals can contact the church at (219) 663-2201.

The community at Marquette Park United Methodist Church, located at 215 N. Grand Blvd., invites everyone to their worship service at 11:15 a.m. every Sunday, followed by refreshments in the Fellowship Hall. This weekly gathering aims to create a welcoming environment for all.

At Faith United Church of Christ, situated at 3030 175th St., worship services are held on Sundays at 10:00 a.m., concluding with fellowship and coffee. This tradition offers attendees a chance to connect with one another in a relaxed setting.

On the last Sunday of each month, Saint Joseph Catholic Church at 5304 Hohman Ave. will host “Donut Sunday” after the 09:00 Mass. This event provides free coffee and donuts in the church hall, fostering a sense of community among parishioners.

In a charitable initiative, the Diocese of Gary is collecting donations of hats, scarves, and gloves at its Merrillville office, located at 9292 Broadway, through January. This campaign, known as Caps for Kids, supports the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, District Council of Gary. Donations can also be mailed to “Caps for Kids” at St. Vincent de Paul, 2714 169th St., Hammond, IN 46323. For more information, individuals can reach the Diocese at (219) 769-9292, ext. 88251.

On December 20, Our Lady of Queen of Martyrs – South Campus will celebrate Simbang Gabi at 16:00. This Filipino Christmas tradition consists of nine days of Masses during the holiday season, followed by a reception after the service.

Additionally, St. Thomas More Church, located at 8501 Calumet Ave., will kick off its annual Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale starting November 28. Sales will be held from 16:00 to 20:00 on weekdays, 09:00 to 20:00 on Saturdays, and 09:00 to 16:00 on Sundays. Attendees will have the opportunity to walk through the tree lot and select their ideal tree, with treats available for children. Proceeds from the sale will support local charities.

Lastly, Valparaiso Baptist Church at 612 Emmettsburg St. is hosting a Nursing Home Ministry event on November 30 from 14:30 to 15:30 at Golden Living Center, 251 Sturdy Road. This outreach aims to connect with seniors at Brickyard Healthcare, and all are welcome to join.

These events highlight the commitment of local churches to enhance community engagement during the holiday season. For further details about worship and community activities, individuals are invited to reach out to the respective churches or visit their websites.