A Christmas party might seem like only a one-day celebration for children at risk, but the chance to connect to friendly peers and caring adults can bring lasting change into their lives. Over the course of last year, the network in Vijayawada, India has witnessed how a Christmas party completely transformed Rani and her family.
For most of Rani’s life, her father’s addiction to alcohol created an atmosphere of chaos and anger in their home. Like any child Rani watched the way her father acted and began emulating his behaviour. By the time she reached grade 10, Rani was behaving like an angry, hardened man.
Then in December 2010 Rani was invited to a Viva Christmas Party at her local church. She had so much fun playing games, making friends, watching performances and hearing a Christmas message that she wanted to start attending church regularly. As the weeks passed, Rani became more gentle and caring towards others, and also started to love and respect her elders.
Her father saw this change and was touched. To the surprise of Rani and her mother, he made efforts to be a more patient, kind father and eventually overcame his addiction. The whole family has been attending church regularly and are living happily together, united by the peace and joy of Jesus.
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