We look forward each year to the annual Langham Family Christmas Party. Scholars studying in Durham, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and St Andrews gather in Edinburgh with spouses and children for an afternoon of fun, of fellowship and food.
The Scholars’ Christmas Party was held at Carrubbers Christian Centre on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to leave the library, computers and books behind for a few hours. We can simply enjoy being together!
For some it’s their first time to experience some very British traditions. These include mince pies, carols around the tree, Christmas crackers and party games. Everyone joins in, leaving their own cultural sensibilities at the door!
Eating together
This year was no exception as six scholars and their families joined us on 1 December for the afternoon. We are grateful to Carrubbers Christian Centre on the Royal Mile.
Each year the church provides us with a hall and kitchen so that there’s room enough for all to sit down to a meal together and to enjoy the games.
Scholars studying in Durham, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and St Andrews gathered in Edinburgh with spouses and children for an afternoon of fun, of fellowship and food.
Have you ever watched a 2 year old from Asia who doesn’t speak much English observe what’s going on with Pass the Parcel and in less than a minute decide she’s in this to win!
Delightful laughter
Or a Dad who is convinced he’s the most creative architect in town. We watched him build the highest tower you can imagine with sticks and marshmallows!
For most of the scholars, life has to be very structured and focused throughout the year and so hearing their laugher as everyone takes part is such a delight.
The party also provides an opportunity to congratulate scholars who have recently been awarded their PhD. We also say farewell to those who are getting ready to return to their home countries.
Highlight of the year
This year we had one Viva success and two families preparing to go home. We sent them off with a blessing from Scripture and prayer.
For all of us, our annual party is a highlight of the year and we are very grateful to Langham for making it possible.
By Liz McGregor, Langham Scholar Care Coordinator
L to R Malcolm, Meron (Ethiopia), Christine and Ian Shaw. Fanos, (holding Saleem daughter of Sofanit and Paulos), Paulos, Sofanit (hold their daughter Zoe). Christian (son of Meron and Yared), Liz, Neemo & Noelle (son and daughter of Meron and Yared) Yared, (behind Noelle). Diane Frost (retired missionary from Indonesia), Nam (from Vietnam in the background). Andrea and Dickens (daughter and son of Okky and Shanti), Shanti, (holding Stefan), Okky (Indonesia).