December 12, 2012

To Dec. 16 – The Belfry Theatre presents A Christmas Carol, adapted and directed by artistic director Michael Shamata and starring Tom McBeath as one of literature’s most enduring characters, Ebenezer Scrooge.

Friday to Sunday until Dec. 23 – Father Christmas, a Victorian Experience is at the Royal BC Museum, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Share holiday wishes and have a photo taken in this special setting. Included with admission or membership. Extra fee for photos.

Through December – Christmas at Craigdarroch Castle Historic House Museum. FMI: www.thecastle.ca

Through December – Christmas in the Jungle at Victoria Butterfl y Gardens, specially decorated for the season and offering evening tours at 5 and 6 p.m.

To Jan. 1 – Canada’s National Gingerbread Showcase, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Inn at Laurel Point. Feast your eyes and nose on creative inspirations constructed from gingerbread. Vote for your favourite and make a donation to Habitat for Humanity Victoria.

To Jan. 2 – Lights & Animation in Centennial Square. Enjoy a magical display of lights and interactive animation along the back wall of the McPherson Theatre. Interact through your smart phone with a special story that will delight and captivate. At the other end of Centennial Square, see if you can fi nd a special tree with lights that move and change with sounds.

To Jan. 3 – The 12th annual Bear Wear continues at the Hotel Grand Pacifi c as a fundraiser for Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. Vote for your favourite bear, dressed by local businesses and individuals ($2 suggested donation).

To Jan. 6 – Magic of Christmas at the Butchart Gardens. Beautiful decorations, nightly entertainment and the ever-popular Twelve Days of Christmas displays tucked away about the Gardens.

To Jan. 7 – Christmas in Old Town at the Royal BC Museum, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The sights and sounds of Christmas long ago, including a 4.5 metre Christmas tree, festive garlands and old-time shops with their seasonal fi nery.

To Jan. 8 – Christmas Small Works Show and Sale at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria’s historic Massey Gallery, featuring works by many of Vancouver Island’s fi nest artists at prices ranging from $100 to $150. FMI: aggv.ca

Dec. 12 & 16 – History of Christmas in Old Victoria Walking Tour, 2 p.m. Meets in Bastion Square, outside the Maritime Museum. This 90-minute walking tour takes place in Old Town, where Christmas traditions and colourful stories abound. Tickets: $14/adults; $12/students & seniors. FMI: www.discoverthepast.com

Dec. 12 – Naden Band Christmas Concert at the Royal Theatre. Tickets: $10/adults, $7/seniors & students, plus an unwrapped toy at the door. FMI: www.rmts.bc.ca

Dec. 12 – Christmas Starlight Cinema. Enjoy Christmas movies under the stars at the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort, Home Alone, 6 p.m. Movies are free but donations to Santas Anonymous

appreciated. Bring a lawn chair and extra blankets, the hotel will supply heaters! FMI: 250-360-2999.

Dec. 13 to 15 – Christmas Trolley Tour in Langford, 6:30 and 7:15 p.m. Tours begin and end at City Centre Park. Tour participation by donation. FMI: 250-391-1738 or www.citycentrepark.ca

Dec. 14 to 31, select dates – Ghosts of Christmas Past with Discover the Past tours, 7:30 p.m. This 90-minute variation on the popular Ghostly Walks focuses on

holiday ghost stories and the supernatural at Christmas in Victoria. Meet at the Visitor Centre (Government & Wharf). Tickets: $14/adults; $12/students & seniors. FMI:www.discoverthepast.com

Dec. 14 – Second annual Stuff the Stocking for Respitality, 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Cridge Seniors’ Centre’s Grand Lounge. Enjoy a cup of cheer, festive breakfast treats, and the sounds of beautiful Christmas music – and offer your fi nancial support to support The Cridge Respitality Service.

Dec. 14 – C-FAX Santas Anonymous Miracle on Broad, a 12-hour radiothon in support of the Christmas Hamper program. FMI: www.cfaxsantas.com

Dec. 14 – Cookeilidh – Celtic Yuletide, 7:30 p.m. at St. Ann’s Academy

National Historic Site. Tickets $16 from McPherson Box offi ce. FMI: 250-386-6121

Dec. 14 to 16 – Christmas Dinner Theatre at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, featuring Stan Davis and Friends’ Harmony for Christmas, a mirthful musical comedy abounding with hilarious Yuletide yarns, warm sentiments and a delightful array of original and familiar holiday songs. Enjoy a three-course festive dinner in Christmas-adorned David Foster Foundation Theatre. FMI: 1-800-668-7758.

Dec. 14 & 16 – Handel’s Messiah with the Victoria Symphony at University Centre Farquhar Auditorium, with the Victoria Choral Society and soloists FMI: www.victoriasymphony.ca/concert/handels-messiah-3/

Dec. 15 – Winter Farmers’ Market, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Market Square. Local meats, fresh-baked breads and desserts, preserves, fresh produce and more. FMI: www.victoriapublicmarket.com

Dec. 15 – Drop-In Christmas Craft at the library. The library supplies the materials and samples, and you supply the imagination! All welcome; children under three must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. Dec. 15 at the Esquimalt Branch, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and the Central Branch, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Dec. 15 – Third annual Victoria Figgy Pudding Carolling Competition in Bastion Square. For beginners and seasoned carollers, the competition runs from 1 to 3 p.m., with awards and a sing-along from 3:15 to 4 p.m.

Dec. 15 – Christmas Classic: A Christmas Carol (Scrooge) at the Vic Theatre. Released in 1951, this adaptation of Charles Dickens’ original novel starring Alastair Sim is widely considered to be the defi nitive of the many fi lm versions. Admission: $10 + HST

Dec. 15 – Christmas Classic: Elf (PG) at the Vic Theatre. Get ready for some Christmas cheer! Follow the antics of Buddy (Will Ferrell), one of Santa’s elves who learns of his true identity as a human. Admission: $10+HST

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Dec. 15 – Early Music Christmas Concert at Alix Goolden Hall, lecture at 7:10; concert at 8 p.m.

Dec. 15 – Celtic Christmas Ceilidh with Qristina & Quinn Bachand and Friends, 7:30 pm. at Knox Presbyterian Church. Tickets $15 & $10 (Kids 10 & under free) from at Larsen Music, Long & McQuade, Ivy’s Bookshop and Ditch Records. FMI: www.qbachand.com

Dec. 16 – Sounds of the Season with Prevedoros, Golden & Joy, 2 p.m. at St. Ann’s Academy National Historic Site. Admission: $15/$12 (students & senior). FMI: 250-953-8829.

Dec. 16 – Celebrate-a-Life Memorial Service, 3 p.m. at the University of Victoria Interfaith Chapel. All welcome.

Dec. 16 – Langford annual Festival of Lights Fire Truck Parade. FMI: www.cityofl angford.ca

Dec. 16 – Christmas in the Park at Eagle Ridge Centre. FMI: www.cityofl angford.ca

Dec. 17 & 20 – Old Fashioned Christmas Storytime at the library. A family celebration with stories for all, seasonal stories and some less familiar Canadian gems. No registration required. Dec. 17 at Central Saanich Branch, 7 to 8 p.m.; Dec. 20 at Saanich Centennial Branch, 7 to 8 p.m.

Dec. 18 – Christmas Starlight Cinema. Enjoy Christmas movies under the stars at the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort,A Christmas Carol, 6 p.m. Movies are free but donations to Santas Anonymous appreciated. Bring a lawn chair and extra blankets, the hotel will supply heaters! FMI: 250-360-2999.

Dec. 20 to 22 – Christmas Trolley Tour in Langford, 6:30 and 7:15 p.m. Tours begin and end at City Centre Park. Tour participation by donation. FMI: 250-391-1738 or www.citycentrepark.ca

Dec. 21 – ‘Twas Not The Night Before Christmas with CapriCCio Vocal Ensemble, 7:30 p.m. at Christ Church Cathedral. Seasonal works for choir and brass. Tickets: $25/adult, $22/senior, $10/student, available at the door, Cathedral offi ce, Ivy’s Bookshop, Munro’s Books, and Long and McQuade. FMI: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Dec. 22 to 31 – Helmcken House Old-Fashioned Christmas at the Royal BC Museum, 12 to 4 p.m. Open the door to one of BC’s oldest buildings. Helmcken House comes alive with the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas in Victoria. Included with admission, membership, or by donation.

Dec. 22 – Sing-Along Celebration with the Casavant Organ, 2 p.m. at St. Ann’s Academy National Historic Site. By donation or bring a small non-perishable food item for the Giving Tree. FMI: www.stannsacademy.com

Dec. 22 – Victoria Bach Ensemble presents A Bach Christmas, 7:30 p.m. at Church of St. John the Divine. Tickets at the door: $15/adult; $10/seniors & students.

Dec. 23 – The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria partners with the UJAM Jazz Society to present the UJAM All Stars, young artists who will share holiday music and jazz standards for the enjoyment of gallery-goers; 2 to 4 p.m. FMI: aggv.ca

Dec. 23 – Vox Humana presents A Child’s Christmas in Wales. Dylan Thomas’ timeless tale read by Welshman Melville Jones and accompanied by carols, 3 p.m. at Alix Goolden Hall. FMI: www.voxhumanachoir.ca

Dec. 27 to 30 – Ballet Victoria Presents: The Gift of Pandora’s Box at the Royal Theatre, giving new life to a classic tale. Celebrate the holiday season with humour, dance and Tchaikovsky. Tickets start at $37 with discounts available for children, students and seniors.

Special Events Continued from page 1

VICTORIA NEWS • OAK BAY NEWS • SAANICH NEWS • GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Wednesday December 12, 2012 CELEBRATE THE SEASON! • 3

By Jennifer Blyth

Christmases of generations past come to one of Victoria’s oldest religious sites when St. Ann’s Academy National Historic Site celebrates Advent.

Decked for the holidays indoors and out, St. Ann’s Academy is hosting two festive events for the holiday season, beginning Dec. 16 with “Sounds of the Season” with Prevedoros, Golden & Joy, in the chapel at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15, or $12 for seniors and students – call 250-953-8829 for details or email [email protected]

On Dec. 22, the Academy invites the community to a Sing-Along Celebration with the Casavant Organ, in the chapel at 2 p.m. Join musicians Greg and Josie Davidson for an afternoon of holiday songs, accompanied by Greg on St. Ann’s 100-year-old Frères Casavant organ. Sing some carols, try your hand at a vintage tree decoration and enjoy some warm apple cider Admission is by donation or bring a small non-perishable food item for the St. Ann’s Giving Tree.

The Giving Tree is on display in the Sisters’ Parlour. Non-perishable food items, unwrapped toys or new and gently-used clothing are welcomed under the tree until Dec. 22 for distribution to local charities.

While visiting, don’t miss the traditional Nativity in the chapel, painted in 1900 by Sister Mary Osithe “as a special surprise for the sisters and students.” Surrounded by cascading poinsettias, the Nativity scene also features a wax baby Jesus from the late 19th century.

The Sisters began teaching in Victoria in 1858 in a log cabin now located at the Royal BC Museum. The Academy’s fi rst permanent structure was started in 1871 and as part of renovations in 1886, the original Catholic cathedral built in 1858 was moved to St. Ann’s to become the school chapel. Today, the chapel appears as it did in the 1920s.

Winter hours at St. Ann’s are Thursday through Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Visit www.stannsacademy.com for details.

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FIRST NIGHT Join us at our 7th annual First Night New Year’s Eve celebration! Enjoy musical entertainment as well as numerous activities, including swimming, skating, arts & crafts, inflatable obstacle course, bouncy castle and a giant movie screen playing holiday classics. We’ll end off the night with a Fireworks Finale at 9pm! Refreshments available for an additional cost. See website for details.

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Be transported back to the time of the birth of Jesus with one of the region’s most cherished traditions, the First Christmas Nativity Pageant at Topaz Park.

Presented by local members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the live outdoor enactment of the Christmas story includes a narration of the story and live actors in the costumes similar to those worn by people two thousand years ago in Bethlehem. See Mary, the Wise Men bearing gifts, humble shepherds and a newborn baby in the starring role.

Performances are scheduled at 6:30, 7, 7:30 and 8 p.m. Dec. 21 to 23 at Topaz Park, on Topaz Avenue, accessed via Quadra Street. Parking is available at either S.J. Willis Alternative School or the Topaz Park parking lot.

This is an outdoor production, so dress for the weather. Bleachers and chairs are provided, and the venue is wheelchair-accessible. Admission is free.

For more information, visit http://christmasnativity.ca

While many people look forward to the holidays as a time to celebrate their beliefs or enjoy time with friends and family, for some the season is a time of grieving and sadness.

A “Blue Christmas” service can be a comfort to those who may fi nd December a challenging time.

First Metropolitan United Church of Canada presents The Longest Night – A Candlelight Service Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. A night of poetry, music, silence and candle-light, “The Longest Night service provides

safe space for all our emotions,” the church explains. “If you seek a place of beauty and calm, if you struggle as Christmas approaches, or if you grieve the loss of a loved one, you are welcome here.”

Participants are invited to enjoy refreshments and conversation following the service, or enjoy the quiet candlelight in the church. For more information, visit www.fi rstmetvictoria.com

In Cadboro Bay, St. George’s Anglican and the Pastoral Care Committee offer a Blue “Quiet” Christmas Service Dec. 16 at 7 p.m.

A quiet and refl ective service, gentle readings, refl ections, music and ritual will focus on themes of loss and change, “remembering what has been, dreams unrealized and experiences of regret.

“Through the power of ritual, we will have the chance to grieve and let go, and enter gently into a new place ready to experience Christmas anew.”

All are welcome; hot apple cider and Christmas treats will follow the service. For details, visit main.cadbayuc.org

Services aid those having a blue Christmas

Many Australians celebrate Christmas by singing carols outside at night. That’s not as chilly as it might sound as Christmas in Australia actually falls during summer vacation.

Live Nativity pageant tells the Christmas story

AA Reason for Joy December 24 at 6:30 pm

Christmas Eve Service

“Christmas Makes You Joyfully Curious”

We join the shepherds through music and drama on their quest

to meet Jesus.

Hot chocolate, apple cider, and cookies will be served at 6pm.

December 25 at 10:30 am Christmas Day Service

“Christmas Makes You Happily Material” The best gift ever given!

Central Baptist Church 833 Pandora Ave. Victoria, BC ♦ 250-385-7786

[email protected] ♦ www.centralbaptistchurch.ca

Underground parking available

Photo by Don Denton

Celebrate the Miracle


Christmas is one of the most celebrated dates on the Christian calendar. Commemorating the birth of the Savior Jesus Christ is only surpassed in importance by the celebration of Easter, a time when Christians remember Christ’s sacrifi ce of life for His people.

Christmas is often celebrated with much joy and fervor all around the world, with exchanges of gifts and special acts of charity all month long. One component of the Christmas celebration that has long been tradition and holds special meaning to celebrants is the Midnight Mass.

Churches all around the world hold four different Christmas celebrations, including three masses and a Christmas vigil. The Midnight Mass is perhaps the most cherished. Mass, a Christian liturgical rite that often involves the sacrament of the Eucharist, may begin prior to midnight and include Biblical readings that focus on the story of Christ’s birth depending on the church. At midnight on Dec. 24, carols may be sung and the ringing of church bells to signify the birth of Christ as Dec. 25 arrives. In Israel, a procession takes place from Jerusalem to Bethlehem on Christmas Eve. In the Catholic Pope’s home of Vatican City, the Pope himself heads the Midnight Mass and people in large numbers pray for peace among mankind.

Many theologians say that the Midnight Mass evolved from individuals making pilgrimages to Israel and the actual

birthplace of Christ. Because the Bible states that Jesus was born at night and in a manger, to fully immerse oneself in the story and the liturgical signifi cance of the moment, a Midnight Mass seems the best place to achieve these goals. The darkness and the gentle hush that nighttime provides helps set the scene and enhance the spiritual component of Christmas.

The Nativity of Jesus takes place in two Gospels of the Bible: the Gospel of Luke and the Gospel of Matthew. The version of Luke goes much more deeply into the story of Mary’s virgin conception through the time of Christ’s birth in Bethlehem. Here is Christ’s birth according to the Gospel of Luke:

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole world should be enrolled. This was the fi rst enrollment, when Quirinius was governor of Syria. So all went to be enrolled, each to his own town. And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her fi rstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Celebrate Christ’s arrivalwith Midnight Mass

Shelbourne Street Church of Christ“a place to call home”

3460 Shelbourne St. • 250.592.4914www.shelbournestreetchurch.com

Christmas Pageant 16 Dec. 5pmFollowed by refreshments

Christmas Eve Worship 24 Dec. 7pmFollowed by refreshments

Join us then and on Sundays at 10 am

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH US

Monterey Centre • 250-519-0799

CAROLS ON CHRISTMAS EVE6:00pm - 7:00pm ~ Monterey Centre

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• Scripture readings

Refreshments to follow

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250-477-6741 www.stlukesvictoria.ca [email protected]

• Sunday, December 16 - Services at 8:00 am 10:00 am Christmas Pageant and 7:00 pm (Evensong)• Sunday, December 23 - Services at 8:00 am, 10:00 am• Christmas Eve - 4:00 pm Child Friendly Christingle Carol Service 7:00 pm Family Communion, with Carols 10:00 pm Traditional Choral Communion with Carols• Christmas Day - 10:00 am Family Communion • Sunday, December 30 - Services at 8:00 am, 10:00 am, 7pm Evensong

St Michael and All Angels St Michael and All Angels Anglican ChurchAnglican Church

4733 West Saanich Road, Royal OakVictoria, BC V8Z 3G9

Sunday, December 23rd Christmas Carol Service, 10:30 am. Christmas Eve December 24th Children’s Service, 4:00 pm. Christmas Eve December 24th Holy Communion 11:00 pm. (Carols at 10:30) Christmas Day December 25th Holy Communion Service, 10:00am.

Church of the Advent510 Mount View Ave. off Sooke Rd.250-474-3031

Church of the Advent, ColwoodRev. Kenneth Gray

Christmas Eve• 6 pm – Folksy Christmas (with Holy Eucharist)• 10 pm – Formal Latenight Eucharist (candlelight) with special music

Christmas Day10:30 am – Intimate Eucharist with Carols

Designed as our annual Christmas giftto the community, this 55 minute celebrationwill include the reading of the Christmas story,

special music of the season, and drama.Christmas Eve Service 6:00 pm

FOR MORE INFORMATION PHONE:

250-479-1733Merry Christmas from your friends & neighboursFIRST CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE • 4277 QUADRA ST. VICTORIA

“Christmas Eve by Candlelight”

www.vicnazarene.ca

Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fi elds and keeping the night watch over their fl ock. The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were struck with great fear. The angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord. And this will be a sign for you; you will fi nd an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.’

Later, the Gospel continues, “He was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.”

Midnight Mass has become an important component in the celebration of Christmas for the faithful. While secular celebrations may focus on the arrival of Santa Claus at the midnight hour, religious celebrations often involve fi lling churches at midnight to spread the word of Christ’s arrival.

Christ’s ArrivalSt. Mary’s Anglican Church

1701 Elgin Road, Oak Bay Ph: 250-598-2212 http://stmarysoakbay.bc.anglican.ca

Sunday, December 23rd, 2012 Advent IV8:30 am Holy Eucharist (BCP)10:00 am Holy Eucharist (BAS)

Monday, December 24th 2012 - Christmas Eve7:00 pm Family Service with Holy Eucharist

11:00pm Sung Eucharist (BAS)Mass Setting: Midnight Mass for Christmas by Marc-Antoine Charpentier

(strings, choir, soloists, organ, and trumpet)

Tuesday, December 25th, 2012 - Christmas Day (BAS)10:00 am Holy Eucharist

Bringing the light of Christmas

Christmas PageantDecember 16th 10:00 AM

Christmas Eve ServicesDecember 24th 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM

OAK BAY UNITED CHURCHfacebook.com/OakBayUnitedChurch

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT AND CAROLS • Sunday, December 16 10:00 am CHRISTMAS EVE • 4:30 pm Carols and Children’s Christmas Story • 7:30 pm Festive Christmas Communion • 10:30 pm Festive Christmas Communion CHRISTMAS DAY • 10:00 am Christmas Day Communion

mST. GEORGE’S Cadboro Bay, Anglican Church

Call (250) 472-2090 • Click [email protected] www.stgeorges-cadborobay.ca • Visit 3909 St. George’s Lane, Victoria

HOLY CROSSHOLY CROSS Roman Catholic ParishRoman Catholic Parish

4049 Gordon Head Rd, Victoria4049 Gordon Head Rd, Victoria

Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Family Mass 6:00pmDec. 24 Christmas Eve Mass 8:00pmDec. 25 Christmas Day Mass 9:30amJan. 1 New Years Day Mass 9:30am

Please join us for Christmas and New Years Services

Church Service ListingsDecember 12 St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Oak Bay – Advent Concert Series, 12:10 to 12:50 p.m., with Brandenburg Band & St. Mary’s Children’s Choir. Admission by donation; proceeds to the BC Cancer Foundation.

First Metropolitan Church – Longest Night (Blue Christmas) service, 7 p.m., incl. poetry, readings & music. Info: fi rstmetvictoria.com

December 15 Church of St. John the Divine, 1611 Quadra St. – Christmas Pageant, 5 p.m. Info: www.stjohnthedivine.bc.ca

December 16Christ Church Cathedral, Quadra at Rockland streets – Children’s Pageant, 9:15 a.m. Info: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Church of Our Lord, 626 Blanshard St. – Christmas Children’s Service, 9:30 a.m.; Celebration, 10:30 a.m. Info: churchofourlord.org

St. George’s Anglican Church, Cadboro Bay – Christmas Pageant, 10 a.m.

Oak Bay United Church – Christmas Pageant, 10 a.m.

St. Luke’s Anglican Church – combined 10 a.m. service and Christmas pageant. Info: www.stlukesvictoria.ca

Shelbourne Street Church of Christ – Christmas Pageant, 5 p.m. Info: www.shelbournestreetchurch.com

Colwood’s Church of the Advent – Parish Potluck and Christmas Singout, 5 p.m. Info: colwoodanglican.ca

Central Baptist Church, 833 Pandora Ave. – hymns & heart, 6:30 p.m. Info: www.centralbaptistchurch.ca

Cadboro Bay United, Blue Christmas service, 7 p.m. Info: www.cadbayuc.org

December 19

St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Oak Bay – Advent Concert Series, 12:10 to 12:50 p.m., with classical guitarist Brad Prevedoros. Admission by donation; proceeds to the BC Cancer Foundation.

Christ Church Cathedral, Quadra at Rockland streets – School Concert, 6 p.m. Info: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Colwood’s Church of the Advent annual carolling, 6:30 p.m. Info: colwoodanglican.ca

December 21Church of St. John the Divine, 1611 Quadra St. – A Pinnacle Brass Christmas, 7:30 p.m. Festive, cheerful music by St John’s resident brass quintet.CapriCCio Vocal Ensemble performs for ‘Twas Not the Night Before

Christmas at Christ Church Cathedral, 7:30 p.m. Info: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

December 23St. Michaels Anglican Church, Royal Oak, Eucharist, 8 a.m.; Lessons & Christmas Carols with Eucharist, 10:30 a.m. Info: www.stmikevictoria.ca

St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Oak Bay, Holy Eucharist, 8:30 & 10:00 a.m., Holy Eucharist

Open Gate Church, 1289 Parkdale Dr., early service, 8:30 a.m., children’s presentation, The Secret of Snowfl ake County, 10:15 a.m.

Church of Our Lord, 626 Blanshard St. – Christmas lessons and carols, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Info: churchofourlord.org

Colwood’s Church of the Advent Every Member Christmas Pageant, 10 a.m. colwoodanglican.ca

Grace Lutheran Church Christmas Pageant, 10:30 a.m. gracelutheranchurchelcic.yolasite.com

Christ Church Cathedral, Quadra at Rockland streets – Nine Lessons & Carols for Christmas, 4:30 p.m. Info: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

First Metropolitan Church – Among Angels Christmas pageant, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 23 & 24. fi rstmetvictoria.com

December 24Christ Community Church, 3897 Holland Ave, Christmas Eve service, 8 a.m. Info: www.cccvictoria.ca

Christ Church Cathedral, Quadra at Rockland street – Family Christmas Eve service, 4 p.m.; Solemn High Midnight Mass, 11 p.m. Info: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Church of St. John the Divine, 1611 Quadra St. – Family Eucharist, 4 p.m. Participate in the telling of the Christmas story in word and

song.; Festal Midnight Mass, 11 p.m.

St. George’s Anglican Church, Cadboro Bay, Carols & Children’s Christmas story, 4:30 p.m.; Festive Christmas Communion, 7:30 and 10:30 p.m.

Cadboro Bay United, Family Nativity Pageant, 4 p.m.; Family Candelight Service, 7 p.m.; Candlelight Communion, 10 p.m. Info: www.cadbayuc.org

St. David’s Anglican Church, Cordova Bay – Family Christmas Eve Service, 4 p.m. Info: stdavidbythesea.ca

St. Luke’s Anglican Church Child Friendly Carol Service, 4 p.m.; Family Communion with Carols, 7 p.m.; Choral Communion with Carols, 10 p.m.

St. Michaels Anglican Church, Royal Oak – Children’s Christmas Eve Service, 4 p.m.; Midnight Mass, 11 p.m. Info: www.stmikevictoria.ca

Providence Community Church, Monterey Centre - Carols on Christmas Eve, 6pm info: 250-519-0799

First Metropolitan Church, Family Christmas Eve, 4:30 p.m.; Among Angels pageant, 7:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion, 11 p.m. Info: fi rstmetvictoria.com

Grace Lutheran Church – A Family Christmas, 4:30 p.m.; Christmas Carol & Candlelight Liturgy, 7:30 p.m. gracelutheranchurchelcic.yolasite.com


Kids in England write

a letter with their wishes to Father Christmas, but unlike mailing letters like North American children, English children toss their letters into a fi re so their Christmas wishes can go up the chimney.

December 23 • Advent IV10:00 am - Holy Eucharist

5:00 pm - Lessons & Carols of ChristmasDecember 24 • Christmas Eve 9:00 pm - First Mass of ChristmasDecember 25 • Christmas Day

10:00 am - The Christ Mass

D b 23 Ad t IV

Cathedral Church of St. John the Evangelist

The Christian Faith • The Anglican Tradition • The Book of Common PrayerThe Corner of Falmouth Road & Savannah Road • Very Rev. Shane B. Janzen 250.920.9990Church of Our Lord (Blanshard & Humboldt)

250.383.8915 www.churchofourlord.org

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONSDecember 16 9.30 am Christmas Children’s service December 23 9.30 am & 10:30 am Christmas Lessons & Carols December 24 4:30 pm Christmas Family Service 10:30 pm Christmas Eve midnight service December 25 10:00 am Christmas Day service

Christmas Eve Services • December 24

Baptist Church

Christmas Around the World4 pm – Family Service

Mary says “Yes” to God8 pm – Candle Light Service

No service on Christmas Day

2121 Cedar Hill Cross Roadwww.emmanuelvictoria.ca

250.592.2418

New Life Community Fellowship

Christmas Eve ServiceChristmas Eve Service6:30 pm to 7:30 pm

3900 Carey Road

(corner of Carey & Tillicum)

Including Congregation Carols,

Radio Play, Candle Lighting

and Refreshments

Our Lady of the Rosary Roman Catholic ChurchOur Lady of the Rosary Roman Catholic Church798 Goldstream Avenue • Victoria BC

Phone: 250-478-3482 Email: [email protected] Paul Szczur, SDS.

Monday, Dec. 24 Masses at 7:00 PM and 10:30 PMTuesday, Dec. 25 Mass at 10:30 AMMonday, Dec. 31 Mass at 5:00 PMTuesday, Jan. 1 Masses at 10:30 AM

Cadboro Bay United Church

Christmas Eve Services: 4:00pm - Family Nativity Pageant 7:00pm - Family Candlelight Service 10:00pm - Candlelight Communion

2625 Arbutus Rd ∙∙ 250-477-2715 ∙∙ www.cadbayuc.org

Blue Christmas Service December 16th 7:00pm “Cause Christmas can be hard”

December 24th at 6:30 pm

We invite you to join us for a 1hourChristmas Eve Service.

813 Darwin Ave in theGarth Homer Centre.

www.tccvictoria.com


Emmanuel Baptist Church, at the Henderson entrance to UVic – Christmas Around the World Family Christmas Eve Service with puppet show, kids’ choirs and carol singing, 4 p.m.; Candlelight Christmas Eve Service with choral music, drama and carol singing, 8 p.m. All welcome. Info: www.emmanuelvictoria.ca

Oak Bay United Church, Christmas Eve service, 4pm and 8pm

Holy Cross Church, Gordon Head Rd., Christmas Eve Family Mass, 6 p.m.; Mass, 8 p.m. Info: holycrossvictoria.org

Colwood’s Church of the Advent – Folksy Christmas with Holy Eucharist, 6 p.m.; Formal latenight Eucharist with special music, 10 p.m.Info: 250-474-3031

Church of the Nazarene, Quadra Street – Christmas Eve by Candlelight, incl. reading of the Christmas Story, music and drama, 6 p.m. Info: www.vicnazarene.ca

New Life Community Fellowship, corner of Tillicum and Carey roads – Christmas Eve service, incl. carols, radio play, candlelighting and refreshments, 6:30 p.m.

Central Baptist Church, 833 Pandora Ave. – Christmas Eve service, 6:30 p.m. Info: www.centralbaptistchurch.ca

Church of Our Lord, 626 Blanshard St. – Christmas Eve family service, 4:30 p.m.; Midnight service, 10:30p.m. Info: churchofourlord.org

St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Oak Bay – Family Service with Holy Eucharist, 7 p.m.; Sung Eucharist, 11 p.m.

Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Old Esquimalt Road – Family Mass, 7 p.m.; Traditional Latin Mass, midnight. Info: 250-384-3884

Trinity, Christmas Eve service, 6:30 p.m. at the Garth Homer Centre.Info: www.tccvictoria.com

Shelbourne Street Church of Christ – Christmas Eve service, 7 p.m. Info: www.shelbournestreetchurch.com

Church of St. John the Divine, 1611 Quadra St., Family Service, 4 p.m.; Festal Christmas Eve Service, 11 p.m. Info: www.stjohnthedivine.bc.ca

Our Lady of the Rosary, Langford, Christmas Eve Mass, 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Info: www.olorchurch.ca

Unity Church of Victoria – Candlelighting Service at Alix Goolden Hall with Caroling at 7:40 p.m. and service at 8 p.m. Info: www.unityvictoria.ca

Open Gate Church, 1289 Parkdale Dr., Christmas Eve Service, 7 p.m.Info: www.theopengate.ca

St. John the Evangelist Anglican Catholic Church, corner of Falmouth & Savannah roads, First Mass of Christmas, 9 p.m. Info: 250-920-9990

December 25Church of St. John the Divine, 1611 Quadra St. – Christmas Communion, 10 a.m.

Christ Church Cathedral, Quadra at Rockland street, Holy Eucharist, 8 & 10 a.m. Info: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Open Gate Church, 1289 Parkdale Dr., Christmas Day service, 10 a.m.Info: www.theopengate.ca

Holy Cross Church, Gordon Head Rd., Christmas Day Mass, 9:30 a.m. Info: holycrossvictoria.orgSt. George’s Anglican Church, Cadboro Bay, Christmas Day Communion, 10 a.m.

St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Oak Bay, Holy Eucharist, 10 a.m.

Church of St. John the Divine, 1611 Quadra St., Holy Eucharist, 10 a.m. Info: www.stjohnthedivine.bc.ca

St. Michaels Anglican Church, Royal Oak, Christmas Eucharist, 10 a.m. Info: www.stmikevictoria.ca

St. Luke’s Anglican Church, Cedar Hill X Road – Family Communion, 10 a.m. Info: www.stlukesvictoria.ca

Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Old Esquimalt Road – Mass, 10 a.m. Info: 250-384-3884

St. John the Evangelist Anglican Catholic Church, corner of Falmouth & Savannah roads – The Christ Mass, 10 a.m. 250-920-9990

Church of Our Lord, 626 Blanshard St. – Christmas service, 10 a.m. Info: churchofourlord.org

Colwood’s Church of the Advent – Intimate Eucharist with carols, 10:30 a.m.Info: 250-474-3031

Central Baptist Church, 833 Pandora Ave. – Christmas service, 10:30 a.m. Info: www.centralbaptistchurch.ca

Our Lady of the Rosary, Langford, Christmas service, 10:30 a.m. Info: www.olorchurch.ca

December 31Our Lady of the Rosary, Langford, New Year’s Eve service, 5 p.m. Info: www.olorchurch.ca

Christ Church Cathedral, Quadra at Rockland, Nightwatch Service, 11 p.m. Info: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

January 1Holy Cross Church, Gordon Head Rd., New Year’s Day Mass, 9:30 a.m. and10:30a.m.Info: holycrossvictoria.org

First Metropolitan Church, Music For Meditation, 2 to 4 p.m. Info: fi rstmetvictoria.com

Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Old Esquimalt Road – Mass, 10 a.m., Traditional Latin Mass, noon. Info: 250-384-3884

January 6Christ Church Cathedral, Quadra at Rockland street – Celebration of Epiphany in Words & Music, 4:30 p.m.

St. Luke’s Anglican Church, Cedar Hill X Road – Epiphany: Said Communion, 8 a.m., Festival of the Nine Lessons, 10 a.m., Evensong, 7 p.m. Info: www.stlukesvictoria.ca

Candlelit Procession with CarolsSunday, December 2, 4:30pm

Christmas in the City: “Inauspicious Events”

A Dramatic & Musical PresentationSunday December 9, 4:30pmCCC Children’s Pageant

Sunday December 9, 9:15amA Liturgy of Expectation

With the St. Christopher SingersSunday December 16, 4:30pmCapriCCio Vocal Ensemble

“Twas not the night before Christmas”Friday December 21, 7:30pmNine Lessons & Carols For

ChristmasSunday December 23, 4:30pm

Christmas Eve Services: Monday, December 24

Family Christmas Eve Service 4:00pmSolemn High Midnight Mass 11:00pm

Christmas Day Services: Tuesday, December 25Holy Eucharist 8:00am

Holy Eucharist 10:00am

“The City’s Cathedral”

Quadra @ RocklandVictoria BC

250.383.2714www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca

Join us this Season!

Island Catholic SchoolsIsland Catholic Schoolscelebrate thecelebrate themost importantmost importantbirthday in thebirthday in theworld!world!

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Emmanuel Baptist Church, at the Henderson entrance to UVic –

Shelbourne Street Church of Christ – Christmas Eve

St. Michaels Anglican Church,Royal Oak, Christmas Eucharist, 10

December 31

Church Service Listings

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By Jennifer Blyth

While spending time with loved ones ranks high on most people’s Christmas lists, for seniors without family nearby, the holidays can be a challenging time. Those challenges can be even harder for those with limited means, who may not be able to afford the necessities to keep them comfortable, let alone something special to treat themselves at the holidays.

Two local programs designed just with seniors in mind are there to help.

For the eighth year, Home Instead Senior Care has encouraged the community to brighten the lives of isolated or lonely seniors with its Be a Santa to a Senior program. Seniors are nominated by workers, non-profi t agencies or individuals, along with a gift idea. Volunteers write the fi rst name of the participating senior and

their gift wish on a gift tag, which is then hung on a Christmas tree in local participating businesses, including Walmart and London Drugs at Tillicum and Saanich Centre.

Gift requests include necessities like grocery store gift cards, magnifying glasses to help make reading easier, slippers and warm pyjamas, says Ann Margeson, Home Instead’s Community Outreach Coordinator, estimating the local “Santas” have delivered 5,000 gifts over the course of the program.

Once shoppers have purchased the gift indicated on the tag, they simply return the gift and tag to the store – usually to customer service. A gift wrapping party is held at Shannon Oaks retirement home in Oak Bay and at the Home Instead Resource Centre in Saanich before a host of volunteers deliver the presents in time for Christmas to area seniors.

Of course, many shoppers include far

more than what is on the tag, adding a number of other gifts along with what is requested, Margeson notes.

Often people’s reason for volunteering and contributing is very personal, whether they are remembering a loved one or perhaps have a parent themselves who is living in a different city. “The generosity is amazing.”

For more details, visit www.beasantatoasenior.ca

That generosity of spirit is renowned at the local Amica residences as well, where for many years, senior volunteers have wrapped gift baskets for areas seniors. Through Amica’s Helping Hands Community Program, the baskets will go to needy seniors throughout the community – 150 last year.

Amica started Helping Hands to help seniors in need and raise awareness that poverty exists at all ages. For the staff

Be a Santa to a Senior volunteers Marge Tawtel, Teija Vuur and Jasmine Vet pre-pare to wrap gifts at the Home Instead Resource Centre.

Local ‘Santas’ help seniors in need

Photo contributed

and residents, the Christmas basket campaign is one of the highlights of the season, as the volunteers gather to sort, pack and wrap the colourful baskets, explain Sally Orr, from Amica at Douglas House, and Lynn Larsen,

from Amica at Somerset House.The annual effort, which reaches

across Canada, arose from a small group of caring Amica Mature

Continued on page 13

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Christmas with Seniors


While giving gifts is a big part of the holiday season, not everyone is as easy to shop for. Seniors, for example, may have downsized so don’t have room for a lot of “extras” around the house. Others may have special dietary requirements that prohibit some food gifts.

Here are a few ideas for the seniors on your holiday list:• Warm things up – as people age, many develop

medical conditions that require medication that can make them feel the cold more than others, so a gift that can keep seniors warm through the winter can make a great gift. A thick wool sweater, warm, no-slip slippers or a fl eece blanket can be both practical and thoughtful.

• Open a senior’s eyes to e-readers – when seniors downsize or move into a retirement residence, they often will have to leave their libraries behind. An e-reader, however, allows seniors to store their favourite books in one small and convenient place. Don’t forget a gift card to allow them to purchase some of their favourite titles!

• A little luxury – for seniors on fi xed incomes, a limited

disposable income may mean they aren’t able to treat themselves to something nice very often, but still love a trip to the spa or a round of golf. If dietary issues aren’t a concern, think about what their favourite treats might be. • Go healthy – many men and women who might have been too busy raising a family to focus on their own health embrace a healthier lifestyle as they age. Gift-givers can help seniors with a gift to match their interests, such as a gift certifi cate to a nearby rec centre or yoga facility.• The gift of communication – sometimes the best gift is the simplest gift. Seniors love to speak with their children and grandchildren, so if you haven’t already, alter your cellular phone plan to a family plan that gives seniors unlimited minutes when calling family members. You could even upgrade a senior’s computer to allow access to instant messaging and videoconferencing services such Skype, allowing seniors to see just how fast their grandchildren are growing even if those youngsters are on the other side of the country!

Gift ideas for seniorsSeniorsin needContinued from page 12

Lifestyles staff members who had heard about seniors in their community who were extremely poor and would have nothing that holiday. Out of their own pockets, they purchased items and put together a few small gift baskets. As the numbers grew, they were joined by Amica residents who also wanted to help, and a tradition was born.

Donations to Amica Helping Hands basket campaign goes directly to seniors in need. For details, visit www.amica.ca/About Us/Helping Hands Charity/Donations

With various fundraising events throughout the year, the Helping Hands registered charity works to bring a better quality of life to marginalized and less-fortunate seniors, efforts possible thanks to the generous support of donors, staff, community partners and Amica residents.

A cosy pair of slippers or warm pyjamas might be an ideal gift for a senior who feels the cold.

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Christmas with Seniors


B.C.’s CounterAttack program marks 35th anniversary

With the launch of this holiday season’s impaired driving campaign, the province, police, the public and ICBC mark the 35th anniversary of the CounterAttack program.

In 1976, the year before CounterAttack roadchecks started, more than 300 people were killed in impaired-related crashes every year in our province. While attitudes towards drinking and driving have changed considerably since then, an average of 113 lives are still lost each year and impaired driving remains the second leading cause of car crash fatalities in B.C. Here on Vancouver Island, an average of 21 people are killed each year in impaired-related crashes.

“We don’t want to see another family suffer the tragic loss of a loved one at the hand of an impaired driver. This is why our dedicated offi cers will be out in full force during the holidays conducting CounterAttack roadchecks across the province,” said Chief Constable Jamie Graham, Victoria Police and Chair of the B.C. Association of Chiefs of Police Traffi c Safety Committee.

If your festivities involve alcohol, be sure that plans to get home safely are part of your plans:

• Being a designated driver is a shared responsibility; take your turn to help get your friends home safely.

• Plan your safe ride home before you start drinking. If you’re going to drink, make the smart choice: choose a designated driver before going out.

• Use other safe alternatives to get home safely: call a taxi, take transit, use a shuttle service, or call a sober friend.

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While a crackling wood fi re is one of the delights of the season, a few safety precautions will help ensure your home and family stay both warm and safe.

First, remember to keep things that can burn away from your fi replace or wood stove – including your Christmas tree – and keep a glass or metal screen in front of your fi replace, recommends the Saanich Fire Department.

Use only the correct fuel for heat – aged wood in fi replaces and woodstoves.

Additionally, creosote logs can be used to help reduce the build-up of creosote in fi replaces. Check labels to make sure the log has been tested and approved by UL. And remember, Saanich notes, even if you use creosote logs, fi replaces should still be inspected by a professional each year.

The Canada Safety Council reminds homeowners to open the damper to allow for good airfl ow before lighting the fi replace or wood-stove, and keep the damper open until the fi re is out and the ashes are cool enough to touch.

Build the fi re with a small amount of dry, seasoned wood to keep the fl ames under control. Resist the temptation to overload your fi replace or stove which can cause tar and creosote to build up in your chimney or stove pipes, creating a fi re hazard.

Never use highly fl ammable materials such as wrapping paper or gasoline in a woodstove or fi replace as these can create dangerous fi reballs in an instant and, just like burning too much wood at once, can cause a buildup of fl ammable materials in the chimney or stove pipes.

Never leave children unattended by a fi re and have a fi re escape plan which is regularly reviewed. Keep a working fi re extinguisher in an accessible location, check smoke detectors regularly, and replace batteries as necessary. A carbon monoxide detector in sleeping areas can alert homeowners to a build-up of the deadly gas, which can

Stay warm, cosy & safethis holiday season

occur if a wood-burning unit is inadequately ventilated.

During the holiday season, remember to take decorations such as stockings off the fi replace before use. For those with a real Christmas tree, water it regularly and keep it a safe distance away from the woodstove and any open fl ames.

Never leave the house or go to bed when a fi re is still burning.

When it’s time to clean the ashes from the fi replace or wood-stove, wait until they’re completely cool and scoop them into a metal bucket – never a plastic or cardboard container – and remember, it can take up to three days for embers and ashes to completely cool.

For more information, visit www.saanich.ca/services/safety/safety.html or canadasafetycouncil.org

Safety tips from Saanich Fire Department and the Canada Safety Council

Avoid having your Christmas tree and stockings too close to a fi replace you plan to use.


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In France, celebrations begin several weeks before Dec. 25, but

Christmas Eve is most special to many. On Christmas Eve, church bells

ring as people sing noels, or carols. The following day,

a feast is enjoyed upon returning home from church. In fact, many

of France’s most popular traditions occur outside.


A Christmas tree is one of the most time-honoured traditions of the holiday season, but if not cared for properly, it can also pose a signifi cant fi re risk.

But following a few simple suggestions from the Oak Bay Fire Department in selecting and caring for your tree will go a long way to helping your family stay safe this Christmas.

Before you buy:• Test it for freshness by drawing the end of a

branch (15cm or 6 inches) through the cup of your hand. The needles should slide through your hand without coming off.

• Bang the stump end sharply on the ground. A freshly cut tree should not lose its green needles.

• Fold a needle until the tip touches the stem, making a circle. The needle should not break but should bounce back into shape.

At home:• If you buy your tree several days before you

plan to set it up, store it outdoors or on a cool porch or patio until you’re ready to decorate.

• Before setting up the tree, cut two inches (5cm) diagonally from the butt.

• Use a tree-stand that has widespread legs for better balance and a large water reservoir to immerse the butt.

• Trees may drink up to four litres of water per day, so be sure to check them daily and supply

fresh water as needed. A stand that holds at least four litres of water is recommended. If the water level drops below the bottom of the tree butt, a seal will form and a new cut will be necessary.

• Do not set up your tree near heat sources and do not block doors or windows.

• Use only CSA-certifi ed lights and be sure to test and inspect before use for cracked bulbs, broken, cracked or frayed wires and discard if faulty.

• Choose fl ame-retardant, non-combustible tree decorations.

• Avoid using angel hair (glass wool) together with spray-on snow as the combination is highly combustible.

• Turn off tree lights when you leave home or before retiring at night and never use lighted candles on Christmas trees!

• Remove your tree within 10 to14 days; after that time in a heated building even the freshest tree will dry out.

Fire-safe tips for choosing and caring for your tree

Swedish celebrations

begin Dec. 13, St. Lucia’s Day, honouring the patron saint of light.

Intricate festivities involve the whole

family.

Once the presents are unwrapped and the last guest has left, put your Christmas tree to good use by recycling it.

Once your Christmas tree is ready for recycling, remove all screws, nails, lights and ornaments, which can be dangerous if passed through chipping equipment.

A variety of community groups will be recycling the seasonal trees as a fundraiser for their programs, including:

Dec. 29 & 30, Jan 5 & 6 – Reynolds Secondary school band tree chipping at the school.

Dec. 30 & 31, Jan 1, 5 & 6 – Braefoot Community Association Christmas Tree Recycling for a donation toward children wanting to participate in local sports programs. Parking lot at 1359 McKenzie Ave. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Jan. 5 and 6 – The 23rd annual Lions Society Chip in for the Kids, in support of Vancouver Island children with disabilities, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at: Broadmead Village Shopping Centre; Westshore Town Centre; BC Forest Discovery Centre; Tillicum Centre; Safeway (Fort & Foul Bay); Sooke Home Hardware; and the University Heights Shopping Centre. A pick-up service is also available Jan. 5 for a minimum $10 donation. Register for pick up at 250-370-0518 or by emailing [email protected] Please note that only live, cut Christmas trees can be accepted

(no artifi cial or potted trees) and decorations and tinsel must be removed.

Jan. 5 & 6 – Oak Bay fi refi ghters will be hosting day-long tree chipping at the fi rehall. Proceeds go to educational support for Oak Bay students.

Jan. 5 & 6 (to be confi rmed) – Colwood fi refi ghters will offer tree chipping at the hall.

Jan. 5 & 6 – UVic Vikes track team hosts tree chipping at Centennial Stadium, 9am to 5pm.

For more events, see www.crd.bc.ca

Chip in for a green future for your Christmas tree

Give your live Christmas tree a green future by recycling it after the holidays.

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Fire-safe tips for choosing

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While the holidays are one of the most anticipated times of year for many families, it’s important to remember all members of the household – including pets.

With the tree and decorations, food and gifts, not to mention the extra guests and excitement the holidays bring, it can be a stressful time for animals, and not everything we enjoy is good for your four-legged friend.

Here are a few guidelines from the local SPCA:Inside your home• Avoid giving bones to your dogs or cats, particularly turkey bones.

Poultry bones easily splinter and can cause serious injury, while bone fragments can cause intestinal blockages or lacerations.

• Chocolate and other sweets should not be given to animals. Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that can be deadly to cats and dogs, though not harmful to humans. The best thing for your pets over the holidays is to keep them on their regular diet. Look for special animal treats instead of giving your animals cookies or sweets meant for people.

• Many popular holiday plants are poisonous to animals, including mistletoe, holly, ornamental pepper and Christmas rose. Remember to keep these plants out of reach of pets, especially birds.

• Avoid purchasing pet toys with small or soft pieces that can be chewed and swallowed. Nylon bones tend to splinter less than plastic ones. Be sure to inspect pet toys regularly and discard deteriorating ones.

The treeThe combination of a Christmas tree and pets can be a recipe for

trouble.Make sure the tree is well-secured. Try to place decorations above paw height and use string to hang the bulbs instead of hooks, which are easily dislodged. If possible, use nonbreakable ornaments.

Avoid using tinsel or angel hair. Cats and dogs will ingest both, which can cause intestinal problems.

Cords for lights should be made inaccessible to pets, especially from chewing puppies and exploring kittens. Remember as well that the chemicals added to the water reservoir of your Christmas tree to keep your tree living longer are toxic to animals, so keep the reservoir covered.

Outside with your pet• Many animals like the taste of antifreeze however it can be fatal even

in the smallest amounts.• The salt used to melt snow can irritate the pads of a pet’s feet – wipe

their feet before they lick their paws.• Cats and wildlife gravitate to warm engines during cold winters. Be

sure to bang your hood to avoid injuring an animal in your engine.

Keep your Christmas pet-friendly

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By Jennifer Blyth

For those who are struggling to make ends meet, or who may be without a permanent roof over their heads, winter can place an added strain on an already tenuous situation.

But you can help make winter and the holidays a little brighter for those in your community with a donation of time, money or much-needed items.

At Our Place Society, for example, always-needed food includes soup staples such as rice, barley, lentils, and dried peas, oatmeal, coffee, fresh vegetables, fruit and juice boxes.

Beyond the food needs, other essentials include toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, deodorant, disposable razors, shaving cream, individual shampoo and conditioner and feminine hygiene products, plus fi rst aid supplies such as Band-aids and Polysporin.

Ensure all donations are unopened and unused.Clothing, including socks, underwear, footwear and

men’s jeans are needed, along with bus tickets, blankets and sleeping bags.

For more information about donating to the Our Place Society, call 250-388-7112 ext 259.

Local food banks are also feeling the strain of increased

need this time of year, and community support can help make the holidays happier for families in need.

Esquimalt residents support families through Esquimalt Neighbourhood House with the 13th annual Christmas Food Drive.

The Township and its CUPE employees will be collecting food items from Esquimalt households through this Friday, Dec. 14. In addition to the bags of food donations picked up by Township crews as they make their usual garbage collection rounds (north of Old Esquimalt Road this week), food donations will also be accepted at Municipal Hall and the Esquimalt Public Works Yard.

For more information, visit www.esquimalt.caLocal grocery stores offer another way to give back.

In addition to donating directly to the food bins in local stores, some also offer special initiatives.

Thrifty Foods’ Food For Families campaign, for example, aims to provide food to 16 food banks on the Island and Lower Mainland this holiday season. Customers can add a $5, $10 or $20 Food For Families gift voucher to their grocery order and funds are then transformed into groceries for those in need.

Donations are also accepted at the Mustard Seed directly or at ta number of community locations.

Spread holiday cheer to those in need

Mustard SeedShopping list Cereal, sugar, fl our Peanut butter, jamMilk (powder/liquid) Margarine, oilCheese, eggsFruit, vegetables; dried peas, beansCanned/fresh/frozen meats

Canned fi shCanned soup, Kraft Dinner Pasta, riceBaby food – Pabulum, formulas (dry/liquid), canned/jarred foodsDisposable diapersCoffee, tea, hot chocolate, JuiceBaking supplies, cake/cookie mixes, pudding

GHOSTS OF CHRISTMAS PASTa spooky 90-minute walk in Old TownDecember 14, 15, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 317:30 pm. Meet outside the Visitor Info Centre

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Mike and Louise Dixon volunteer for the Mustard Seed at the Bay Centre.Photo contributed

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By Jennifer Blyth

Family, friends and cherished traditions are central to this most special time of year. Many of Victoria’s longest-standing events offer families an opportunity to make cherished memories while also extending the giving spirit of the holidays to the region’s many dedicated non-profi t organizations.

Enjoy a stroll through the Fairmont Empress Hotel, where the 21st annual Festival of Trees BC Children’s Hospital continues through Jan. 4, transforming the hotel into a forest of uniquely decorated trees from sponsors, businesses, organizations and individuals.

Be inspired to create your own masterpiece with a visit to the Inn at Laurel Point and Canada’s National Gingerbread Showcase, open for viewing daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to Jan. 1.

More than houses, these unique works of art have been created by professional and amateur chefs. Vote for your favourite and make a donation to Habitat for Humanity Victoria.

Nearby, at the Hotel Grand Pacifi c, children will delight in the well-dressed teddies of the 12th annual Bear Wear fundraiser for the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island (formerly the Queen Alexandra Foundation), on exhibit to Jan. 3. Admission is free and for a suggested $2 donation, enter a draw to win your favourite bear; enter as many times as you like – the more times you enter, the better your chances at winning that bear in the raffl e!

The Bay Centre is making it easy to support the local community while fi nishing your holiday shopping. The 14th annual Spirit of Giving Campaign continues through Dec. 24, collecting fi nancial or non-perishable food donations for the Mustard Seed Food Bank, which currently has 7,200 people receiving assistance, including 1,650 children under 12.

Also at the Bay Centre, food, fashion and art come together through Jan. 2 where one-of-a-kind garments created by fashion design students from the Pacifi c Design Academy’s fall 2012 program will be on display. Each

garment has been handcrafted using food labels – vote for your favourite garment for a suggested $2 donation to the Mustard Seed Food Bank. You could win a $100 Bay Centre gift card just for placing your vote.

At Uptown, the Town Plaza is being transformed into a winter wonderland to raise both awareness and funds for the local community. Uptown is donating 10 per cent of every gift card purchase until Dec. 24 to one of three local charities, as chosen by the card purchaser – the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island, Victoria Hospice or Victoria Cool Aid Society.

Uptown has also partnered with local businesses to create the Boulevard of Wishes and raise $5,000 to grant a wish for a Vancouver Island child through the Make a Wish Foundation. Each business has sponsored and decorated a Christmas

tree that will be on display in Uptown’s Town Plaza for the month of December.

Have fun, help others with these fun holiday activities

Support Habitat for Humanity by voting for your favourite gingerbread house at the Inn at Laurel Point.

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With Thoughts of You at Christmas

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As the holiday season approaches, our hearts are warmed by thoughts of the many good people we’ve had the

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forward to seeing you in the new year.

December 12, 2012

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Transcript of December 12, 2012