Holy Cross Episcopal Church was filled with Christmas anticipation and the joyful energy of children during Christmas Cookies, Carols & Cocoa, a free, family-focused gathering for families in the Homewood community on December 20, 2025. Children delighted in decorating Christmas cookies, listening to Christmas music, and making ornaments. The event was coupled with the Church’s Annual Christmas Toy Giveaway, with more than sixty families welcomed into a warm and festive space.
Thanks to the generosity of volunteers and donors, dozens of families received Christmas breakfast “to-go” bags to enjoy together on Christmas morning. The event offered not only a fun and memorable holiday experience but also a meaningful connection, creating space for families to be welcomed and supported during the Christmas season.
This gathering reflects the heart of the Episcopal Education Initiative, which seeks to build relationships with families and imagine new, accessible pathways of education, care, and formation for children in Homewood.
We are particularly grateful for the support for this event from the Anti-Racism & Social Justice Committee at St. Paul’s Mt. Lebanon. Your continued prayers, encouragement, and partnership as this work unfolds are also greatly appreciated.
Those interested in learning more about the Episcopal Education Initiative or exploring ways to be involved are warmly invited to reach out to the Rev. Charles Fischer frcfischer@gmail.com or Eileen Sharbaugh sharbaugh@verizon.net.