It’s Christmas all the year round in Cootamundra

You are helping chaplains and communities connect through all seasons 

When primary school chaplain Denyse attended her first SU Connect Prayer gathering she was nervous. How would she feel praying with new acquaintances  for the first time in this new environment? 

Thanks to God, she needn’t have worried. As is often the case with prayer, the emphasis is not on our requests, but on God’s provision. 

For Denyse an answer to prayer came in the form of fresh inspiration: 

“While trying to overcome my fear or praying with new colleagues, an idea came to me! Christmas in July. Praise God! I knew it was from Him,” attests Denyse. 

The idea quickly began to take shape with the support of the local community, her church, and some very special volunteers. 

“In what I believe to be God’s perfect timing … I was supported by my Co-Principals to have the inaugural Christmas in July event during Brekkie Club/ Recess ….” says Denyse. 

“This involved the loving support of my church, Cootamundra Anglican Church. 

“Two volunteers, one an ex-food tech teacher and the other an ex-school parent turned up bright and early to prepare hot chocolate with marshmallows, white christmas and pancakes with maple syrup or jam … and cream with sprinkles! 

“To put it simply, the sugar was not lacking!”

But sweeter than the food even were the relationships formed and forged, culminating in a key question.

“There was a wonderful sense of community and new connections being built …

“ A few students asked why we were celebrating Christmas in July, with one asking about the meaning of Christmas,” reflects Denyse.

And as Denyse reminds us: it all began in the quiet, still space of prayer.

“We need to pray. God does and will move to do His part! We need to give Him opportunities …” 

Please continue to pray for the vital work of chaplaincy in our communities. To find out more about chaplaincy opportunities and vacancies please visit: apply.chappy.org.au/positions