The fourth annual free 'First Gift' Community Christmas Program was held by parishioners and volunteers of the New Life Assembly of God Church in Tamaqua.

Children and families filled the seats for both programs.In addition to providing gifts, singing carols and dancing, children were entertained with a puppet show starring Savannah, who talked with Pastor Ed Noftz and his wife Rosemari about the consequences of lying. Parents and children also enjoyed short movie clips, visits with Frosty the Snowman, a large holiday display, gift bags, and free cookies and cocoa.In addition to holiday gift bags, children had the opportunity to compete with each in various activities.Two Nintendo Wii game systems were also awarded to two children after their names were drawn."We hold this to help the community and spread the true meaning of Christmas - the celebration of Christ's birth," said Noftz.Nicole Lynn of Summit Hill, who has six children, said she never saw such a great holiday program like this."They are providing a great holiday outreach program for the community," she said.The annual event is held twice on the second Friday of December.For more information about their yearly and holiday programs, call the church at (570) 668-4059.