For God So Loved the World

Each Christmas Eve at CFC, we remember the billions still living in spiritual darkness—waiting to find the freedom and lasting joy found only in Christ, our Emmanuel. This year, our Christmas Eve giving will support the anti-human trafficking ministry that one of our very own, Patricia Miller (global staff at CFC), and her team in Spain serve with. As always, 100% of your gift will go toward this initiative. 
 
If you have someone who is hard to shop for and you want to give to this project in their name, we have certificates for you at The Center. You can also download a certificate at the link below to print at home.
 
If you want to give now, you can do so by clicking on the link HERE. You can always give in-person by putting “Christmas Eve” on the memo line of your check and dropping it off in the offering boxes here at CFC. 
 
Also, since many of you remember CFC with your year-end giving, we want to remind you of the year-end giving guidelines that we have to go by. You can see those guidelines HERE. Simply put, in order for your gift to apply to 2025 for tax purposes, please make sure that you hand-deliver it by 5PM on 12/31, give online before midnight on 12/31, or have it postmarked by 12/31. 
 
If you love a good story, keep reading!
 
When we asked Patricia’s team how they’ve seen “joy to the world” take root in the lives they serve though this ministry we are supporting with our Christmas Eve offering, they shared two powerful stories (names changed for security).
 
Elizabeth: From Trauma to Peace
Elizabeth, a woman from Latin America, arrived at the Safe Home after a lifetime of physical and emotional abuse. Anxiety and emotional detachment defined her days—until she encountered Christ’s love. For the first time, she opened a Bible and discovered God’s forgiveness and peace. As she grows in faith, she now finds strength to face overwhelming moments by remembering what God is doing in her life. The anxiety and sadness that once consumed her are giving way to joy and hope.
 
Hannah: The Joy of Freedom
Hannah, who is from the Middle East, came to the Safe Home speaking little Spanish and carrying deep fear. Over time, she experienced love, safety, and support. Last summer, she committed her life to Christ and was baptized—despite the personal cost it could bring. Now living more independently and training as a seamstress, she speaks of the joy of knowing the true God who has taken her sins and given her freedom. She cherishes the sisterhood she has found among the women and volunteers who walk beside her.
During a recent visit, Hannah noticed a TV broadcasting the Muslim call to prayer. Her grief over the spiritual bondage she once lived under led us to pray together right there in the restaurant—for each other and for all who long for true freedom in Christ.
 
As we sing songs this Christmas like “Joy to the World,” may we reflect on the same freedom and joy Christ has brought to Elizabeth, to Hannah, and to us. And may that joy move us to love our neighbors in tangible ways.
 
Let’s love the world this Christmas, CFC! We can't wait to see what God does with our gifts. See you Sunday!