Aaron Bunch Journalist with Australian Associated Press | Collection of published work | + 61 484 008 119 | abunch@aap.com.au
Brisbane’s ‘Xmas orphans’ gather for lunch
Jerard Groves and Reverend Dr Peter Hobson share a laugh on Christmas Day.
Wesley Mission volunteers in Brisbane have served ham, prawns and plum puddings as “Michael Buble and Mariah Carey wannabes” sang karaoke Christmas carols.
December 25, 2019
Brisbane’s “Christmas Day orphans” have gathered to share a festive meal and sing away loneliness at Wesley Mission.
Volunteers served ham, prawns and plum puddings to about 150 smiling faces as “Michael Buble and Mariah Carey wannabes” sang karaoke Christmas carols.
“People who may feel marginalised in many spaces, here they feel valued,” Reverend Dr Peter Hobson told AAP.
“Some of our folk are sleeping rough but others have a home and maybe they’re experiencing loneliness or a relationship breakdown.”
Reverend Hobson said all were welcomed to pull up a pew and share a traditional meal at the Christmas Day lunch, now in its 20th year.
“They’re wearing funny hats, they’re telling bad jokes around the table and they’re singing Christmas carols,” he said with a laugh.
Wesley Missions’ nourishment for the soul helps people ward of loneliness during the holiday season and get a decent meal in their belly, Reverend Hobson said.
“We can’t provide the connections, but we can provide a space for those connections to take place.”
Jerard Groves, 27, said Wesley Mission had always been there for his family and he was glad to visit again and enjoy Christmas lunch.
“I’m loving being in the atmosphere and hearing the laughter,” he said.
“It’s good just not being at home, here I am interacting.”
“I’m just waiting for the plum pudding now,” he added.