Culloden Christians unite to share Christmas cheer

Congregations in the Culloden and Ardersier area to the east of Inverness have joined forces to help spread some Christmas cheer.

The Church of Scotland's Culloden and Ardersier congregation was among kirks from a cross-section of denominations which once again rose to the challenge of packing and distributing boxes of goodies so as many people as possible can enjoy some seasonal festive treats.

This year 210 Christmas hampers will go out to the community, thanks to the effort of local churches, stores, schools and other groups.

Every hamper comes with the blessings of the participating congregations involved, which also include King's Inverness, Smithton Church and Culloden Gospel Hall, along with a small testimony book and the Good News newspaper.

Also supporting the initiative are local Tesco, Morrisons, Spar and Co-op stores, and charities CFINE and Adopt-A-Child.

Church manager Issy Freudenthal said: "These boxes will be distributed by the local schools, social work, churches and various other organisations that have asked for boxes.

"These will be given out to help those in our area in need this Christmas. Each hamper contains various food items along with a voucher. Also included in the hampers was a useful information sheet giving information on where help can be accessed."

Culloden and Ardersier Parish Church already provides support for the community throughout the year, including operating its own community larder at the Barn Church in Culloden. The congregation is in the process of creating a community garden which will also be a source of food for local people in need.