In a small corner of the world, Christmas isn’t marked by bright lights or piles of gifts. Instead, it is celebrated in a humble church in the Philippines, where families gather under one roof to share a meal and celebrate together. In the Dalahican community, children ran freely as parents and neighbors came together to observe the Filipino tradition of Noche Buena on Christmas Eve.
The church in Dalahican is made up of individuals and families affected by drug addiction, poverty, illness, and many forms of hardship. With the help of our dedicated volunteers—special thanks to Cristy and Pastor Raffy Mercado —Aspire to Dream was able to provide a large communal meal and drinks for approximately 60 adults and more than 50 children. In addition, we prepared and distributed 40 grocery bags filled with spaghetti, rice, noodles, coffee, sugar, and bread to support families in the church community.
As the community gathered for praise and worship, both parents and children were reminded of the true meaning of Christmas—a Savior who entered the world in humility, who understood hunger and hardship, and who came not for the wealthy or powerful, but for those often overlooked.
Among the festivities and gifts, Jesus was God’s greatest gift to the world. Two of our amazing scholars, Aira and John, joined us and volunteered to help celebrate God’s gift with games and prizes for the kids. We were especially thankful to see how something as simple as ice cream could bring such genuine joy and wide smiles.
By the end of the day, more than 110 individuals were reminded that they are seen, valued, and deeply loved—first by God, and through us.
