On December 7, 2010, Camp War Eagle hosted its fourth annual Community Christmas Dinner at the Metroplex in Rogers. 727 people from 166 families gathered for an evening celebrating the “peace and goodwill” brought to all people because of Jesus’ birth.
During the fall, Camp War Eagle invited select families of CWE campers to attend the free dinner. As families arrived at the Metroplex, they were greeted by CWE staff and volunteers and escorted to tables adorned with fresh greenery and candlelight. Before the meal, Christmas-themed games entertained the younger children while older children and parents solved Christmas word searches and puzzles at their tables. Santa paid a visit to the event, taking Christmas wishes from children and posing with them for photographs. Photographers were available throughout the evening to shoot formal Christmas pictures of families.
Bear Maddox and the Camp War Eagle kitchen crew provided a traditional turkey dinner for the guests. Bruce Hawley and Alden and Heather Napier performed live Christmas music throughout the evening. Sam Torn, the executive director of Camp War Eagle, shared a few words about the true meaning of the holiday: not the presents under the tree, but the gift of Jesus’ birth.
The evening ended with the distribution of Christmas gifts to each family. Every child in attendance received an age-appropriate gift from Camp War Eagle, and every family received a weeks worth of groceries made available through Angel Food Ministries.
The Christmas season, while full of joy, can also be a trying time for people facing the harsh realities of difficult economic times. Through the meal provided, the gifts presented, and the message shared, Camp War Eagle hopes to minister to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our families.
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