In downtown Thorold, only a short bus ride away from Brock University, the Anglican church of St. John’s is opening its doors to host a Christmas food market.
On Dec. 8, local Thorold church St. John’s is having a Christmas food market from 1 to 5 p.m. at 12 Carleton St. South. The inside of the church will be decorated with holiday lights and transformed into a winter wonderland. All are welcome to come enjoy the festive atmosphere and delicious treats.
St. John’s says it commits itself to being a very inclusive community that values diversity. “Opening our doors and sharing food lies at the very heart of our mission — to bring people together, not just at Christmas, but throughout the year,” said event coordinator Lisa Bowman. “This act of hospitality echoes the true spirit of the season and embodies the Christmas message of welcoming others and sharing a meal.”
Proud of their richly diverse congregation, St. John’s will reflect this diversity in their Christmas market, where they will “showcase a vibrant array of vendors, each offering unique culinary traditions from around the world,” said Bowman. This opportunity also allows the church to support local businesses and bring “a wide range of delicious, globally inspired foods” to the community.
Patrons can stop by the café for a Christmas cookie or an indulgent square and wash it down with a “steaming cup of rich hot cocoa or freshly brewed coffee.”
By participating in this local event, participants will help sustain the everyday work that allows St. John’s to bring people together, provide support to those in need and share the love and kindness that lie at the heart of their mission.
St. John’s plans to have North American candy canes, hot chocolate and baked goods present at the event, as well as some authentic cuisines and treats from around the world.
Mrukku Bites is a small, local business that specializes in authentic Indian food, snacks and spices. Their vision is to provide delicious healthy food in eco-friendly packaging.
Babci’s Kitchen will bring handmade Polish cuisine including pierogies, cabbage rolls, “meat on a stick” and Polish donuts called paczkis.
Infusion Organic Tea, based out of Fort Erie, will make an appearance with their organic loose leaf tea blends that are meant to “awaken your mind, body and soul.”
Also expected are Sealand Quality Foods and Uncle Dad’s Pizza Plus among other small businesses. Moreover, the church community is putting together baked goods and hot drinks.
Patrons will be greeted at the door by volunteers dressed in festive attire. “This welcoming environment invites people into our doors in a noncommittal way, allowing them to experience the warmth and generosity of our church on a personal level,” said Bowman.
While a portion of the funds raised at the St. John’s Christmas Food Market will be donated to outreach programs, the majority will directly support the ongoing work of the church. “These funds also help us maintain our programs and outreach initiatives that serve our diverse congregation, ensuring we remain a vibrant and enduring presence in the community for generations to come,” said Bowman.
All are welcome to come, with old friends or new, to celebrate the season and spread holiday cheer. “This Christmas event at St. John’s is not just a market,” said Bowman. “It’s an opportunity to come together as a community, celebrate the holiday season and embrace the joy, love and warmth that Christmas brings.”