The piles of gifts grew as more and more folks walked into the Effort UMC's annual St. Nick dinner. Extra tables were set up to accommodate the unexpected large group of guests. All had come to enjoy a fantastic meal at no cost other than a donation of a gift for anyone of the families the Effort church helps for the Christmas holiday through the St. Nick project currently spear headed by Linda and Don Ernst of McMichaels. During the dinner the Children's Choir sang and Elf Steve Johnson played the keyboard. Once dinner was completed by the approximately 150 persons, all kinds of holiday fun began, including the singing of Christmas carols and a possible picture with Santa Claus. The intent of the yearly ministry of caring is to bring the spirit, love, hope and joy of Christmas to families in the area, who are expereincing difficult times, by providing Christmas gifts to each family member.