KJV Bible, Luke 2:7-14

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Peace and goodwill towards men. That was the sentiment on Saturday at the Italy Ministerial Alliance food pantry. Nineteen volunteers representing area churches came together, young and old, separated canned goods and delivered a big box of food, fruit and turkey to 38 people in need around Italy.

As adults and youth filled up boxes, anyone watching could see the true meaning of Christmas. Recently, Rev. Beverly Hamilton, President of the Italy Ministerial Alliance, left this world to be with our Lord. One of the things she impressed upon members of the Alliance and parishioners at the Methodist Church and anyone she spoke to was to embrace everyone no matter who they are, accept and love each other as Christ taught us to. She was a great teacher because it was all evident.

Volunteers working side by side included:

Bobby Itson
Bill Youngblood
Karen Mathiowetz
Debbie Tatum
Nathianel Johnson
Pastor Isaac
Kenneth Copeland
Bryant Cockran
Barbara Copeland
Weldon Holley
Dick Erwin
Brian Mathiowetz
Ruth Tarrant
Lois Helen Reeves
Billy Copeland
Chris Hayes
William Youngblood
Zachary Latimer
Alex DeMoss
Tommy Sutherland

The Italy Ministerial Alliance wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe, healthy New Year.