By Paul McElwee
A UNIVERSAL sign of peace, something which many pray for especially at this time of year -the dove – is set to play an integral part in the festive season for one Rossnowlagh native who is using the symbol to draw attention to humanitarian crises across the globe.
Judith Hinchcliff, a parishioner at St John’s Church in the popular seaside village, will once again hang a ‘dove of peace’ on her Christmas tree in a show of solidarity with all those whose lives have been devastated by war, including the Gazan people and those fleeing civil war in Sudan.
The former Anglican nun will also use gesture to highlight the efforts of Christian Aid and their efforts to support people in need.
One of the many to have been helped, thanks to funding from Irish Aid and the Scottish Government, Christian Aid and its partner Smile Again Africa Development Organisation (SAADO) is Shede who, along with her six-year-old daughter and granddaughter, received a small cash grant to help with the purchase of nutritious food and cooking utensils in the Wedweil Camp in Sudan.
Christian Aid Ireland Chief Executive Rosamond Bennett thanked Judith for helping to raise awareness of the devastating impact of war. She said: “We’ve all seen the terrible images of war on our TV screen this year and it’s important, especially at Christmas, that we remember the countless people impacted by conflict.
“Here at home, we’re looking forward to our Christmas celebrations but for the refugees in South Sudan who have escaped with only the clothes on their backs, there’s no room for comfort and joy.
“Thankfully, aid agencies like Christian Aid and our local partners are helping some of the most vulnerable to survive and thrive.”
For more information and to support Christian Aid’s work this Christmas, please visit caid.ie/Christmas
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