• Faith, family and fun

The Calamvale Corps, friends, family and local community members gathered recently for a traditional British Christmas celebration.

A British Christmas was the theme for a recent multicultural event at Calamvale Salvos, west of Brisbane.

“The church hosts two multicultural nights each year to validate people from that culture in our community and church, said Major Di Gluyas, Calamvale Corps Officer. “We want to show them how valued they are and to celebrate and learn about their culture.

The Christmas theme began at the entry to the corps.

“For our winter event, we focused on Christmas. Guests were greeted on arrival with the uniquely flavoured dandelion and burdock soft drink. The food was also English – roast turkey or beef, Yorkshire puddings, gravy, vegetables, with plum pudding and custard for dessert.

“Family and friends were invited to attend, and it was great to see so many new faces. The hall was done up like an English home at Christmas. We had a special visit from King Charles (stand-in) for the annual Christmas speech, family games, great food and many laughs. Calamvale Salvos is about faith, family and fun.

“It was also a great opportunity to be educated on England and to celebrate and validate our English church family members.”

Guests enjoyed special British treats throughout the evening.

Last year, the church hosted an Indian and a Tongan night, complete with traditional food, decorations, national dress, games and music. An African cultural celebration is to be held later this year, and an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander event is planned for 2024.

The Calamvale area is home to people from around the world, including African nations, China, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore and Tonga.