Fundraising for L'Aquila - the end!

First of all, a very big THANK YOU to all of you, as the fundraising for our twinned parish of San Raniero draws to a close. Everyone has been magnificent in giving their time, donations, gifts, ideas and help to this worthy cause. The Manchester-based company, Italo Logistics (who have very generously offered to transport the donated goods to San Raniero free of charge), will be sending their very large lorry to collect all the donated gifts, musical instruments, computer equipment and clothing at 0930 a.m. on Monday, 14 December, for delivery to the village in time for Christmas.

We will be flying out to meet the consignment when it arrives at San Raniero and will supervise the unloading of the vehicle and distribution of the gifts to all Fr Gerald's needy parishioners. We will be staying over the Christmas period and will create a photo-journal of our trip so we can share the experience with you all when we return. Please keep both us and our twinned parish in your prayers over the Christmas season.

The last few months have been an incredibly busy but rewarding time for us both. We've been both astonished and moved by the interest, generosity and kindness shown by all of you during this project.

We know that your efforts will enable Fr Gerald and his parishioners to have a more joyful Christmas and will give them renewed hope and faith with which to look to the future. Once again…

Grazie a tutti e Buon Natale! (thanks and a happy Christmas to you all!)