Christmas dinner for all at St Peters in the City

St Peters' Reverend Enosa Auva’a. Photo / David Hall

St Peters in the City is hosting its Christmas dinner on December 25 and invites the whole community.

Reverend Enosa Auva’a said the dinner was a chance for the community to come together to meet new people and celebrate the birth of Jesus.

St Peters has been holding these annual Christmas dinners for 35 years, always serving around 250 people.

“It’s one way that we can support those who don’t have a normal meal on Christmas Day,” said Auva’a.

“This is an invitation for those who don’t have the privilege of just sitting at a table and having a meal together. This is an opportunity for you to come and join us.”

There is a set menu of cold meats, roasted vegetables and desserts that will be served by a large group of volunteers from around Tauranga. Entertainment including singers and a performance by the church choir.

Auva’a said his favourite memories from the Christmas dinners were the “table talks” where community members sat together and sharing what had happened in their lives in the last year.

“They are treasures,” he said.

“We look forward to seeing as many of our own community become part of this event to celebrate knowing the birth of Jesus. It’s always a lovely time.”

St Peters Church funds the dinner with donations and the event usually costs between $4000 and $5000. The dinner will be held at the church and runs from 5pm to 7pm on Christmas Day. The venue has capacity for up to 250 guests.

- SunLive