Come As You Are: Christmas 2021
Decorate your church with golden stars this Christmas to create a message of welcome and support.
Christmas is a crucial time for people struggling with loneliness, financial stress, and homelessness. Too often, people suffer alone because they don’t know what help is available. Or in the worst cases, simply give up hope after being turned away too many times.
We want to shine a light into the darkness and help local churches to be seen and known for good.
You can join us by decorating your church door, windows or pews with golden stars and the words Come As You Are. Let anyone who sees this sign know that your church is a place where all people can find a warm welcome, support and God’s eternal love.
Decorate your church or home
We’ve put together an activity pack, so you can get the whole congregation involved!
Why decorate with stars?
Just as God gave the world the gift of His Son, you too can use your presence as a gift to others. The church is called to be present in and connected to our communities.
‘You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.’ Matthew 5:14-16
In what ways is your church a light in your community? It is important that the church is doing good, but also that it is known for the good it is doing - that people feel welcome and included in the church community.
Jesus says that the church should be visible in the world so that everyone might be drawn to the love and light of God.
Can your church be seen? Does it look welcoming?
Decorate your church with golden stars and an invitation for all in your community to Come As You Are. You can also display your stars as a focus for prayer, share them online to reach more people, and use them to start conversations with your congregation.
More ways to get involved
Take a collection for us
You can dedicate one of your church collections to the Church Urban Fund this Christmas.
Reflect on your Presence
Sign-up to the Growing Good Toolkit today and start the first session with your church.
Watch our Christmas Concert live from Lambeth Palace
Featuring the Soul Sanctuary choir, our Christmas Concert is a celebration of all the people and churches who are Growing Good in their communities. Join us!