Yesterday at Kmart, volunteers wrapped Christmas gifts for people they didn’t know. There were no speeches and no expectations — just time given, hands serving, and kindness freely offered.

Across Devonport, a similar spirit is being lived out. Churches have already provided over 240 Bags of Hope, with more still to come. These bags will help ensure local individuals and families have food on the table and something to open on Christmas morning. In total, more than 400 food hampers and hundreds of toys will be shared across our community this Christmas.

Thankyou to the Church gatherings who have already taken part:

• Devonport Church of Christ
• Lifeway Baptist Church
• Presbyterian Church Devonport
• C3 Devonport
• Village Church Devonport

The Way of Jesus

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.”
Mark 10:45

Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. When His people choose to follow that way — together — love becomes visible in everyday places: a shopping centre, a kitchen table, a front door.

Through simple acts like gift wrapping and preparing Bags of Hope, immediate needs are met. But something deeper is also happening. These moments create space for dignity, connection, and the gentle sharing of the hope we have in Christ — the true reason for the season.

Better Together

No single church carries this alone. When we serve side by side, we reflect something of God’s heart for our city.

It starts with a bag, a coffee, a simple act of kindness

It grows through unity.

And it ends with hope in a home.

We are better together.

If this Christmas finds you searching — for hope, for meaning, or simply for a place to belong — you are welcome. Across Devonport, churches are gathering to remember Jesus, whose life and love continue to inspire acts of service like these. Whether you step into a local church, join a community gathering, or take a quiet moment to reflect, the invitation of Christmas remains open: come and see.