Gifts were solicited from members of the church, the public, and private organizations while the Guyana Prison Ministry supplied relevant information regarding the children of inmates. The support and generosity of the various groups was heartening. The largest single benefactor was the Embassy of the Bolivian Republic of Venezuela whose Ambassador donated GY$100, 000.00 worth of gifts.

 

The first of the children to receive their presents did so on Old Year’s Day. They were invited to the Conference Annex where they were treated to stories, inspirational talks, snacks, and, of course, their gifts. Director of the Personal Ministries Department, Pastor Richard James, used the opportunity to offer a special prayer for the children and their parents. The children’s ages ranged from infancy to adolescence.

 
Pastor James praying on the children’s behalf
 

This initial distribution of 26 gifts catered largely for inmates’ children who reside in Georgetown and its environs. The remainder of the gifts will be presented by the end of January to children in New Amsterdam and around the country by Prison Ministry Teams and Adventist churches based on the location of the children.

 

According to Mrs. Debra Henry, Children’s Ministries Director and principal local organiser of the event, the Angel Tree venture will be annual one.

 

                        

          A shy but contented smile prompted                      A curious toddler leaves his dad to secure
                     by a happy heart                                              his snack while he examines his gift