December 18, 2025
Last year, Pastor Mike Plasters had an idea for a new kind of community event at Galilee: a free breakfast where neighbors could gather, enjoy a meal with their families, meet church members, and have their picture taken with Santa Claus.
The idea was so well received that Galilee brought it back this year. On Saturday, December 13, the church once again hosted Breakfast with Santa and Saint Nick.
While Santa Claus is a beloved symbol of Christmas cheer who needs no introduction, Saint Nicholas of Myra is a less well known figure from history. Saint Nick was real. He was a pious believer and generous bishop whose life helped inspire many a Christmas legend. At our breakfast, children were invited to meet both Santa and Saint Nick and have their photos taken at no cost.
To fill in the details about both Santa and St Nick, outgoing Children’s Ministry leader Suzi Leftwich read stories to the young people. She also shared the true meaning of Christmas: the Good News that Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son, was born in Bethlehem to bring hope to the world and salvation to mankind.
Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus with their helper.
Just shy of 300 people filled the gym, including Galilee families and community members who learned about the event through advertising and word of mouth. Guests enjoyed pancakes and sausage, while children decorated Christmas cookies, adding plenty of frosting and laughter to the morning.
The event was made possible by 42 volunteers who gave their time before, during, and after the breakfast to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Once again, special thanks go to Mario Brathwaite, who generously donated his time and professional photography skills to capture the priceless moments when children met both Santa and Saint Nick.
Merry Christmas everybody!
