On the 15th December 2010 the Sant Nirankari Mission West Midlands Branch hosted a Christmas Lunch for the elderly Citizens of Sandwell. Over 250 elders of the community were warmly welcomed into the Satsang Bhawan and treated to an afternoon of festivities. Christmas Carols echoed around the entire Bhawan which set the mood for the programme. The tables were set out in banquet style and as everyone took their seats Christmas Crackers were pulled creating a further sense of joy and happiness.

The Mayor of Sandwell Councillor Pauline Hilton was received and greeted by Respected Sukhjinder Singh ji and other committee members at the Bhawan. On her arrival the Lunch commenced with introductions by Respected Upashak ji and various other dignatories including Chief Superintendent Steve Dugmore of West Midlands Police, Derek Campbell from Race Equality who all commented, about the tremendous efforts that had been made to make the occasion successful. This was rounded up by Councillor Hughes who was instrumental in assisting the Mission in organising the programme.

Lunch was served and the efforts of all the volunteers were noted and appreciated who had taken time off work to serve the elders and in their words, “Put Something back into the Community.” Many volunteers felt uplifted being involved in service as this is a central teaching of His Holiness Nirankari Baba Ji. Furthermore it should be noted that the Government in the United Kingdom wishes for the Community to be engaged in this way under the new banner of the Big Society.

All the attendees were served a 3 course vegetarian meal. Respected Upashak ji shared the messages of Satguru Baba ji with all in attendance and Mr John Allen who has met Baba ji on a previous occasion also recalled his divine message.

After the conclusion a devotee Kuldip Roopra ji dressed up as Santa Clause to distribute gifts and literature of the Mission with personalised Christmas Cards. There was a wonderful sense of Unity created after the event binding the community into a single tapestry. Such events exemplify the work of His Holiness Baba Ji spreading the message of Universality. All the community elders left exceptionally pleased after the occasion some of them having made voluntary contributions and sending messages of thanks. The press was too in attendance and great coverage was given to the event.

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