Divine Mercy Prayer Group hails from the Church of the Resurrection in the La Horquetta parish.

This three-year-old group started off as a set of persons going on pilgrimages and eventually turned into what it is today – “a community group, which is merciful, loving and caring for all in the community,” says Sr Christine, one of the group members.

Sr Valerie Murphy, group coordinator, surrounded by the children while handing out whistles

Sr Murphy and some other members of the group sharing hot dogs

Sr Christine sharing a drink with one of the children at the Children's Christmas Party

Each of the three years of its existence, the group has hosted a Christmas party for the children of the community.

The Christmas parties have been sponsored via donations (and those) from the members of the group and other persons.

This year's party was well received, just like the previous two.

The many children were treated to hotdogs, drinks and whistles, and were also given chits to collect presents from Santa.

The highlight of the day was the appearance of Mr and Mrs Claus.

The children blew their whistles as loudly as they could while Santa Claus and Mrs Claus made their way onto the stage, after which they sang and danced.

The next day, the prayer group went to Cyril Ross Home for children with HIV/Aids and held a similar Christmas treat.

The group hopes that it will be able to do more work with less fortunate families, for example by giving out food hampers each month, and also has plans to support a youth arm.

The prayer group meets every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Church of the Resurrection and everyone is welcome to visit