Grace Presbyterian Church to host Christmas in July

By BRANDY CRUZ | Photos courtesy of the NORTHEN FAMILY

Summer is heating up, but it’s never too early to start spreading holiday cheer. Hosted by Grace Presbyterian Church and organized by Norman Northen, Christmas in July is a fundraiser for Feed My Sheep, a nonprofit organization that feeds those in the community in need.

Northen said he came up with the idea a few years ago to organize a Christmas fundraiser. He approached Feed My Sheep, who asked him to do a Christmas in July event to help kick off their fundraising efforts in the middle of the year. After approval from the Grace Presbyterian Church board, Christmas in July was born.

During last year’s inaugural event, Northen, a florist for nearly 50 years, created floral arrangements that would be the centerpieces of the fundraiser.

“It’s very rewarding,” he said, “to use your talents to give back.”

The theme for this year’s event is “Prayers for the Seasons of Life.” Northen said there will be 14 arrangements, prayers and songs focused on the various stages of life — birth to death. He said the arrangements made this year will be things people can place in their house year round.

“Last year we did 12 musical numbers with a floral arrangement that coordinated with that particular song and sold those arrangements,” he explained.

This year’s event will kick off with a silent auction. Photos of silent auction items will be posted on the Feed My Sheep site for people to bid on, as well as live at the Christmas in July event. The event is free and will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church at 6 p.m. July 21.

“It’s such a blessing to go to,” Northen said about the event.