The RHM staff decided to give a party for the newly emerging population of families from Russia being served at RHM. The staff invited 24 families to join them for a party to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. Christ UMC Mission Committee hosted the party and provided refreshments and decorations. A total of 108 joined the festivities, including 78 guests, 30 hosts, and Tupper the Clown (aka Stephen Smith).
     Each family received two blankets and a food basket (including an eight pound roast, a two pound ham, fresh fruits and vegetables). The evening included entertainment by Tupper the Clown, and a gift drawing (including a fur coat (not real fur) and five bicycles). The story of the birth of Jesus was read (in Russian) by one of the two Russian Pastors in attendance. The expressions of surprise and joy on each face proved that the Prince of Peace was in our midst. Many of the guests expressed that we would never fully know how much all this meant to them. They were overwhelmed to be so warmly remembered at Christmas by their American brothers and sisters.