27 October 2005
Advent calendar tells modern story of a mother's hope at Christmas
Methodist Relief and Development Fund (MRDF) has launched its
Christmas appeal by producing a fundraising advent calendar that
gives a global perspective.
The calendar tells the story of new mother Wassa TraorŽ, who
travelled hours across Mali because she wanted to give birth at a
health centre so her child could have all the care and medical
attention necessary. At the end of her exhausting journey, Wassa
was able to rejoice in the birth of her baby girl, Safiatou. As we
approach Christmas, Wassa's journey echoes that of Mary and Joseph
to Bethlehem where Jesus was born, which serves as a reminder of
both hope and hardship at this time.
Kirsty Smith, Director of MRDF said. 'Advent is a time of hope.
Wassa was determined her baby would be born in the best possible
place, even if she had to walk miles. She can now celebrate the
safe delivery of a healthy baby at the Kadiana health centre, which
is equipped and supported by an MRDF partner organisation.'
Sadly, unlike Wassa, so many women in developing countries do not
have access to good quality health care. Women in Mali are 150
times more likely die in childbirth than women in Europe, simply
because of a lack of basic medical care. Community health care,
such as that provided by MRDF partners, can help save lives and
bring hope. This Christmas, MRDF is encouraging people to engage
with the stories of people like Wassa and provide their support to
help protect babies and their mothers in developing countries. They
are working with their partners to provide essential pre and post
natal care, improved nutrition and simple health care for children
in their first few years of life.
The advent calendar is beautifully illustrated and has Bible
quotations and colourful images behind each of the 24 windows. It
provides a great opportunity for children and their families to
learn about life in another country as they count down to
Christmas, while at the same time supporting health projects which
ensure more women have the opportunity to give birth safely and
that their children have a better start in life.
MRDF advent calendars cost £2.50 each. Profits from the sale of
calendars will go towards projects to promote infant and maternal
health in developing countries. Orders can be placed by e-mailing
mrdf@methodistchurch.org.uk, calling 020 7467 5132 or sending a
cheque made payable to MRDF to: MRDF, 25 Marylebone Road, London
NW1 5JR.