Saturday was a very big day at Bracebridge United Church. The event began months ago when people started making plans for the day. Jams, jellies and pickles were preserved. Knitting and quilting was accomplished. Treasures were rooted out of closets and cupboards and polished up for new owners. Friday the church was humming with disciples carting tables, hanging decorations and packaging baking. All this so that Saturday morning at 9 am the doors could be thrown open for the public to come in and come they did. Crowds bustled about snapping up bargains, keepsakes and Christmas gifts.
This was the second year for our Christmas Market Place. We decided two years ago to call it a “Christmas Market Place” and not a Bazaar as many church call such a function. We decided that this is bigger than a bazaar given that it includes a Silent Auction as well as crafts, Christmas wreaths, preserves, baking, a kids crafts room and a lunch room. In fact, we try to offer as many options as the building will hold in the various rooms.
The day was successful in many ways. Yes, it did generate funds for our church treasury to help pay the bills through the upcoming winter. This was a prime motivator but equally important the day gave opportunity for many, many members of the congregation to get involved in making it such a success and we all felt good about that. Thirdly, it gave opportunity for many in the community to come into our building and get to know a little more about our faith community.
It was a lot of work but it was fun. Well done BUC!
