On a bright and sunny autumn day in the Jardim das Comunidades, Almancil, the congregation of Christ The King Anglican Church Algarve turned out in force to thank the people who do so much to help, support, and care for the members of the community who need it most.
It was standing room only on Sunday, November 27 when Christ The King welcomed and honoured representatives of the Bombeiros of São Brás de Alportel, Loulé and Messines, the Junta de Freguesia de Almancil, ASCA (Associação Social e Cultural de Almancil) and the Portimão Soup Kitchen.
During the service, which was led by Rev’d Kelvin Burke, presentations and gifts were made to each of the organisations, all from funds raised by members of the Congregation throughout 2022.
The Bombeiros were presented with cash and vouchers for much-needed equipment for each of their brigades.
ASCA were presented with 42 large Christmas gift boxes filled with Christmas goodies for the residents of their centre in Almancil and the folk who attend their day care centre.
The Portimão Soup Kitchen took away with them a mound of blankets for the homeless in their area that had been knitted during the long days of lockdown and donated by members of the Congregation and knitters through the Algarve during Lockdown.
Speaking for Christ The King Anglican Church, Terry Blackman said: “The fires this summer clearly identified how dependent we all are for the volunteers that protect us and keep us safe. We were happy to step in and help when the Junta called as the fires raged around us. Equally, when the Ukrainian refugees arrived in March and posed a real challenge for the Junta in housing, feeding and caring for them, Christ The King was able to help both physically and financially, and this work still continues today. Indeed, all our guests today visibly demonstrate selflessness in their service to the community. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to recognise the work of these local heroes”
Speaking on behalf of the Junta in Almancil, Griselda Neto thanked Christ The King for their generosity and said: “We are grateful that we can call on the Church in times of need and crisis with the confidence of knowing that we can work together and make a difference in the community.
“Throughout the 17 years that the Church has worshipped in Almancil, they have always been viewed as being an integral part of the community and the Junta look forward to another 17 years of working together.”
For details about services, times and directions to The Church in the Park, Christ The King Anglican Church, Almancil, call 932 841 943 or email [email protected]
