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[Roro]

My husband & I give out 40-50 christmas ornaments to our church congregation for Christmas gift.(one per family)......

Do you have any ideas or different suggestions for christmas presents that is economical ??

Thank you Rhonda

[Rhonda]

This is only my second Christmas as a pw
Last yr. I baked cookies, candies, etc, and gathered inexpensive plastic Christmas containers (from Dollar Store) & gave one goodie box per family. This yr. I've ordered things from Oriental Trading--I bought the red satin Bible markers that say "Jesus is the Reason for the Season"--also the candy canes with Bible verses on them--we plan to hand out as a family closer to Christmas. I know it's small but I think they appreciate the thought more than anything.
We have a friend who is a good amateur photographer--we plan to do some outdoor family pictures for family gifts. A picture of the pastor's family in a Christmas card would also be nice.

IN HIM ,
Rhonda

[Guest]

I have been a pw for a good number of years. We have never given gifts to the congregation. Do they expect that? Is it normal? We don't have a large church, but I still think it would be a big expense. We generally give something to the deacons because they work so close with the pastor but that's it. Are we wrong?

[Rhonda]

Our church is small (40 - 60 people). I don't think (?) they expect it. At the church we went to before, some years the pastor did--some years they didn't. We love our church people SO much---this is just a little something we want to do for them. I'm not saying it's wrong if you don't. I know there are times it would be impractical.


In HIm,
Rhonda

[Corri]

Every couple of years, we make glass christmas balls using paint inside. These can be purchased *cheap* and just rinse with vinegar water and let dry (over night is good)...then, pour a bit of acrylic (cheap) paint inside--2 or 3 colors and turn every 10 minutes until the ball is covered. This creates a beautiful swirl effect, but will take the better part of a day. Then, dump it upside down and let it drip. Oh, for this whole process, I use the box they came in. Then replace the top hooky-thing, and hot glue a ribbon bow....now, we usually take a paint pen (gold) and write one name of Christ on the ball, on opposite sides. This way, they have the "ornament of Christ" on their tree. If I've not been clear enough, and you are interested, please feel free to contact me.
_________________
Because He lives,
so do I--
Corri

[Roro]

Thank you for all of your ideas......Being new as a PW sometimes its hard thinking of cheap ideas. And no, the congregation dosen't expect it, but I wanted to do something special for the people but wasn't forsure how to on a cheap budget.

Thank you and God bless you all-
Rhonda