A heart for Christmas

You may or may not know, that our various ministry groups have their own blogs! We have plagiarised (!) this Farnborough blog edition from our Revive blog (that you can view and subscribe to for their future content, by clicking here)

Ah, Christmas. That magical time of year when the air smells like cinnamon, the jumpers get uglier, and the nation collectively debates whether Die Hard is a festive film (it is, by the way!). But here at Kerith, Christmas has always meant something deeper — a season to give, to love, and to share the heart of Jesus with the world around us.

Over the years, you, our Kerith family, have absolutely smashed it with your generosity. Through our Revive Ministries, you’ve helped families in need with shopping vouchers, and your compassion has genuinely gobsmacked us. You’ve shown what it means to be the Church — not just in name, but in action.

But this year, we’re switching things up!

Thanks to your continued giving, our Cost of Living Crisis Fund is already in place to support families facing financial hardship. So instead of asking for more money, we’re inviting you to give something just as powerful — your time, your love, and your care.

Introducing: A Heart for Christmas

As part of our ‘James the Just’ series, we recently launching the Heart for Christmas campaign — and we’d love everyone at Kerith to get stuck in. Whether you’re 9 or 90, this is your chance to be a walking, talking expression of Jesus’ love in your community.

Between now and 21st December, we’re encouraging you to do something kind and meaningful for someone else. It could be a mate, a neighbour, a struggling family — or even a complete stranger.

The mission? Simple - Love someone - Serve someone - Meet a need.

Need Some Inspiration?

Kindness doesn’t have to be grand or expensive. Sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest impact. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Take someone who’s feeling isolated out for a coffee or a stroll.

• Invite your neighbours round for mince pies and a natter.

• Offer to do a food shop for someone who’s struggling.

• Give a lift to someone without transport.

• Write a heartfelt card to someone going through a tough time.

• Drop off a home-cooked meal to a new parent.

• Do a bit of litter picking in your area.

• Mow a neighbour’s lawn or help tidy their garden.

• Pay for the coffee of the person behind you in the queue (and try not to look too smug about it!).

OR maybe God will nudge you towards something more personal — speaking up about an injustice, or quietly supporting someone who’s having a rough time.

Whatever it is, it doesn’t need to cost much - just a bit of time, thoughtfulness, and a willingness to show up.

Celebrate the Ripple Effect

Once you’ve done your act of kindness, grab a wooden heart, and pop it on our display at church. Each heart will represent a story — a moment of love, compassion, and community. Together, they’ll form a beautiful visual reminder of what happens when we all play our part.

At the end of the series, we’ll gather to reflect, celebrate, and pray over the lives touched by this campaign - it’s going to be powerful.

Got a Story to Share?

We’d love to hear how your act of kindness made a difference — to you and/or to the person you helped. No pressure, but if you fancy sharing, you can do so anonymously via the short form HERE. Your story might just inspire someone else to take that step.

For Our Young Superstars 🌟

Kids under 11 — we see you! If you complete an act of kindness, let your Kids Lead know, and you’ll receive a shiny ‘Superstar’ badge as a thank-you for spreading Christmas cheer.

So, what are you waiting for? Ask God who He wants you to bless this season — and then go and do it.

Let’s be the hands and heart of Jesus in our towns, schools, and workplaces. Let’s fill our communities with kindness, compassion, and hope.

This is the true Heart of Christmas - let’s make it unforgettable!