Festivities, Fellowship and Feasting in Griffith

BaptistCare Griffith in the ACT has jumped on board the Christmas sleigh this year with residents, their visitors, and BaptistCare staff all enjoying a week of festive celebrations.

Joy and fellowship has spread throughout the corridors in the last fortnight, as the aged care centre welcomed the sights and sounds of the Christmas season.

In the entrance foyer, a Christmas tree covered in gold and red towers over those who pass by, and this impressive tree stands opposite a humble yet beautiful nativity scene, the real focal point of the decorations and an important reminder of the true reason for the season.

“Christmas is a time of sharing, and it has been so special for our residents to welcome family and friends into their home to celebrate together. This time has been truly inspiring, and a real demonstration of the spirit of welcome we have here,” said Nisan Bar Lev, Lifestyle Coordinator at BaptistCare Griffith Centre.

“We are not an island; we are an active part of the local Canberra community and it has been very special to open our doors to people and help them kick-start their own Christmas celebrations,” he continued.

Griffith’s festivities were launched with a Christmas carol concert on Tuesday 5 December, led by local choristers ‘Rhythm Syndicate’ who shared their vocal and musical talents with residents and their guests who gathered in the chapel. Those assembled joined the choir with heart and harmony, as both voices and spirits were lifted together in song.

A Christmas tradition since BaptistCare Morling Lodge days, the week also saw host to two days of family Christmas luncheons, as festive feasting warmed the hearts and filled the bellies of over 270 diners.

With superb weather, seasonal treats and the buzz and energy of a room filled with chatter and celebration, visitors proclaimed the day to be ‘the best so far’.

When the feasting was over, volunteers from the BaptistCare Morling Lodge Auxillary welcomed guests to wander around their Christmas stalls. Selling homemade preserves and a variety of art and craft items, the stalls offered residents and guests the chance to find a special gift, and support the work of the Auxillary in raising funds for BaptistCare Griffith Centre.

“I enjoyed it. We did very well with our Christmas stalls; people came by and enjoyed what we had to offer. I will pop in when I am able and catch up with the wonderful friends I made there,” said Noela Blight, member of the Morling Lodge Auxiliary.

A sentiment no doubt shared by all who partook in the festive activities.

Residents and staff at BaptistCare Griffith Centre have led the way in opening their doors this Christmas, yet Nisan has a further invitation to share.

“We want the community to know that our warm welcome extends beyond the festive season. Our café, balcony and beautiful gardens are ideal places to share time here with us. BaptistCare Griffith Centre is an extension of the community, and our doors are open throughout the year to family, friends and visitors alike,” he shared.

Find out more about BaptistCare.