Avon Church in Stratford, Ontario is inviting the entire community to come together for a festive Christmas Eve dinner on December 24. The meal is open to everyone, with no registration, donation, or church affiliation required.

The event runs from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Local Community Food Centre, with doors opening for coffee and conversation before the full meal begins at 4:30 p.m. This marks the second year Avon Church has hosted the dinner, which grew from conversations within the congregation about addressing local needs in a meaningful way, particularly after the church sold its longtime meeting space at Greenwood Court during the pandemic.

Last year, an estimated 150 people attended the Christmas Eve meal, which included a full turkey dinner, dessert, and a range of dietary options. Volunteers also prepared extra food, allowing the church to donate roughly another 150 to 200 meals to local shelters, including Shelterlink and the Connection Centre.

Volunteers will rotate through two sittings on the evening of December 24 to ensure as many people as possible can be accommodated. The dinner will feature festive music, a traditional holiday meal, and a welcoming atmosphere designed to bring the community together on a night that can feel isolating for many.

Organizers emphasize that the event is about fostering connection and community. Attendees are encouraged to bring family, neighbours, or come on their own. Everyone will have a place at the table, and extra meals will continue to be donated to local organizations.

The event reflects Avon Church’s focus on community engagement, showing how a congregation can support its neighbourhood through shared meals and inclusive gatherings, while ensuring that holiday traditions reach people who might otherwise spend the evening alone.

Source: Rob Ross, StratfordToday