We are told by chefs and foodie programmes that we should eat seasonal fresh foods sourced locally.
I’m sure some of us try to do that, being mindful of air miles, supporting local producers etc. But, oh dear, what about our Christian festival foods and practices? I received a sample pack of Christmas cards in August! By the time I will be thinking of sending cards I will have forgotten where I have stored them safely away.
I can get hot cross buns and Easter biscuits all the year round, Simnel cake too. Stollen is available any time. Pancake Day is the one day that seems to be recognised, but as with the others the history and reasons for such foods is lost.
Christmas trees and other decorations go up sometimes in November, long before Advent. I can understand why the town decorations go up early. It certainly sets the scene, and Melksham is so lucky to have such a dedicated team whose decorations are the best for miles around. We are surrounded by Christmassy things for weeks. Anticipation can only last so long. Christmas magic for me happened, when as a child, I went to bed on Christmas Eve with not a decoration or present in sight and then woke up to a house that somehow had been transformed during the night. Memories like these last forever.
Advent begins this year on the first of December. Children will be looking forward to opening the first door of their calendars and finding what is behind it. Please look out for the Advent calendar for the Foodbank – you will find them in churches and various other outlets. If you buy the suggested food for each day and deliver it during Advent, you will have contributed to making a needy family’s Christmas a happier one. That is what the Christmas spirit is all about.
Anne Doyle
