IN keeping with the spirit of Christmas, St Mary MacKillop Parish is providing a free lunch on Christmas Day.

Christmas is a time for sharing with family and friends, although for many people across the southwest this is not possible.

If this is you or someone you know, there is an open invitation to everybody for a community Christmas Day lunch at the MacKillop Centre behind St Mary’s Catholic Church.

St Mary MacKillop Parish manager John Hockey said that it was something the parish does annually.

“We do it every year – we think it’s very important,” he said.

“We don’t always promote it, but we know there’s a need out there, so people are most welcome to come along.

“We know there’s a lot of people out there that don’t have anyone to spend Christmas with and it’s not just about that, but if you would like to share Christmas with someone, please come along.

“Our parishioners donate all the food.

“There’s hams, meats, drinks and desserts – there’s aways a great feast.

Mr Hockey also said there was entertainment for attendees.

“We put on a bit of entertainment - it’s an Elvis impersonator that does a Christmas theme show,” he said.

“That’s always good fun.”

Mr Hockey stressed that if anyone is unsure about coming alone, they’ll be made to feel welcome.

“We have volunteers to talk to people and make them feel most welcome,” he said

Father Paddy Mugavin said he hoped people would feel encouraged to come along.

“We’d long for anyone who would be on their own to feel free to come and join us where there’s a wonderful spirit of welcome and openness and hospitality.

“We would love anyone to come – not to feel nervous about presenting.

“It’s not just about those with minimal resources – it’s just anyone who would otherwise be at home.

“We wouldn’t want anyone to feel – oh, perhaps that’s not for me.

“And its completely non-denominational.”

Mr Hockey added that if anyone wanted to volunteer to help on the day they were most welcome to get in touch.

Bookings are essential for catering purposes and must be in by December 18; there is no charge.

Enter via the Dinwoodie St carpark, 12pm start – all are welcome!