While we were up at Crag House Farm, the home of CFL (Caring for Life) in November, we listened to the staff planning for Christmas Day.

We thought that we would like to join them; we prayed about it and approached Peter & Esther. They were delighted and said we would be very welcome.

On Christmas Day we collected two ladies. One lady came to the door in her pyjamas; she had forgotten that it was Christmas Day and she was going to CFL! We waited for her to get ready and then we were on our way to Leeds Reformed Baptist Church where many from CFL worship, to share in their Christmas Day service. A lot of people came and it was very enjoyable.

Next stop Crag House Farm! The tables were decorated in the centre and ladies were busy in the kitchen. We were soon joined by many others, about sixty in total.

These are some of the people who the Housing Support Team care for. The help, love and warmth that CFL give these people is such a wonderful Christian witness. A few came dressed up, but most came in what clothes they had.

We all shared in a lovely Christmas Lunch, thanks to Pat and her ladies. There was plenty to eat and everyone tucked in. Some of the folks started to talk to us and we listened. They have all got a different story to tell about their own circumstances, but one thing they all have in common: every one was very much in need of the support that CFL offers.

CFL makes these people feel loved and cared for, even in the dark times which many of them have.

Christmas crackers were pulled and presents given out. Some clung to them and told us they were taking them home to open; others were excited about what they had received and no one missed out.

When we took one of the ladies back to her hostel she thanked us for taking her out, touched my face and said, “God bless you. I've had a lovely day”.

On returning to our home, which is not a palace, but is comfortable, safe and warm, our thoughts were of the day we had just spent at CFL. We are so fortunate to have each other, and the love of Jesus that we both share enables us to share it with others.