Christmas shop offers joy–and choices–to Fairfield families

Christmas shop invites your participation

Parishioners provide books, toys, games, and more for Fairfield families

For many years, St. Stephen’s offered an “Angel Tree” for East End families much like the holiday offerings of many churches and secular organizations. But in 2019, we reimagined this ministry as a Christmas shop. While parishioners formerly purchased Christmas gifts for a specific youngster, we began instead to ask for donations of toys, games, and other items to stock a Christmas shop where Fairfield students’ parents or grandparents could select gifts for their own children. Fairfield families were so enthusiastic about this new tradition that we have continued it every year, even during the pandemic.

Instead of receiving a bag of gifts chosen for them by parishioners, children receive gifts selected by the people who know them best, based on their individual needs and interests. This approach offers a measure of dignity to the family in need, empowers them to make their own decisions, and allows us to serve them more effectively. The store is set up for one day at Fairfield Court Elementary School–December 13 this year–when parents come in to shop.

In addition to being able to select gifts that they know their children will use and enjoy, shoppers are also able to wrap the gifts themselves.

You are invited to purchase items to stock the Christmas store. You may also volunteer to sort or transport items, help arrange them in the shop, and assist shoppers on the day the shop is open. Deadlines, sign-up and other details are at ststephensRVA.org/christmas-shop.

Parishioners purchase toys, games, books, dolls, and stuffed animals for different age groups, which are then organized by St. Stephen’s volunteers at Fairfield Elementary School. Parents and grandparents select the items that are appropriate for their children. Wrapping supplies are available, as well.

Financial information coming your way in December and January

As we begin the season of Advent and a new church year, I want to introduce myself and let you know what to expect from the church finance office in the coming weeks. My work at St. Stephen’s Church includes processing your donations, including payments on your pledge and special gifts, a process that typically picks up toward the end of the calendar year. I send regular communication to each individual or household so that you know what you have given, and what the balance is on your annual pledge. We mail quarterly statements in April, July, October, and December, with the fourth quarter statement going out midDecember. Annual statements for 2022 will go out in midJanuary 2023. In addition to reviewing the total given, please review your statement to ensure that all funds were applied correctly. Statements include all donations given to date, as well as any pledge balances. If you have elected to receive this information electronically, you’ll receive an email from me rather than mailed statements. When making your final gift for 2022, please be mindful that donations should be received by the church no later than January 5, 2023 if you wish to have them included with your 2022 donations. Donations are easy to make online with a credit/debit card or by setting up payments through your financial institution. Setting up recurring payments is also an easy and convenient way to make regular donations towards your annual contribution. Our website has additional detailed information for giving, found under the “Give” tab on the home page. If you have any questions about your giving or pledge balance, please contact me anytime at cmoses@ ststephensRVA.org, or call the church office at 804.288.2867. Thank you for your continued support of St. Stephen’s and the many ministries and communities that benefit from your generosity. I am excited to be a part of the St. Stephen’s community, and enjoy working with each of you to further the mission of this church. ✤ Caroline Moses is accounts manager for St. Stephen’s Church.

GOOD TO KNOW

Would you like to change the way you receive information about your gifts to St. Stephen’s Church? Some parishioners do not want quarterly statements; some may be receiving them by postal mail and wish to change them to email. To ask us to tailor your reports in a new way, visit ststephensRVA.org.gift-

reports.

By Caroline Moses