Keshauna Nichols
Deacon Frank Archer (left) and Pastor Alberta Boswell James (right) singing Christmas Carols
Christmas is definitely the season for giving and though this lady is no Santa Claus she gives whole heartedly without ever expecting anything in return.
Pastor and retired nurse Alberta Boswell James of the Restoration of Life Mission in Christ Apostolic Church, hosted her 24th annual Christmas treat on Tuesday, December 22 in St. Ann’s Bay on the Church compound.
Mrs. James said it is her way of giving back to St. Ann’s Bay, and communities including Lime Hall, Priory and Chalky Hill among others, from where children came to get a meal and gifts. She said “Growing up I didn’t have a doll and had to plait grass roots and God sent me to give back.” She added that she prefers to give gifts that are educational and can help the children to read and write.
Over 100 children were present and a few parents accompanied their children.
The treat began with the children singing their rendition of various popular Christmas
carols including ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town’. Afterwards, the children were given a delicious meal of rice and peas, fry chicken with vegetable and juice. The meals were served by
Annette Rattray, Christopher Green and others. The children were also given gifts ranging from teddy bears, dolls and toy trucks to educational books.
The God fearing woman said none of this would have been possible without the help of the Restoration of Life Mission in Christ Apostolic Church, friends, sponsors, organizer Alisa Ellis and her church sisters and brothers.
A parent Phyllis Anderson in saying thanks said it was a very good programme. It helps to make the children feel special and happy and that God spoke to Pastor James to help others.
Mrs. James said she started the programme with her six daughters at Windsor Heights Basic School in 1991. Her daughter Pastor Karen Anderson plays a major role with the continution of the Christmas treat.
In August, The Restoration of life Mission in Christ Apostolic Church keeps its back to school treat. It supplies children with books, pencils, and other schools items.
