Hundreds Gather for Annual Christmas Dinner at RDS
The annual Christmas Day dinner for those in need at the RDS drew hundreds of people this year, marking a centenary of the event organized by the Knights of St Columbanus. From its humble beginnings in 1924, when it served 500 mostly homeless men in Dublin’s Mansion House, to its move to the RDS in 1994 due to increased demand, the dinner has been a beacon of hope for many.
Festive Feast and Entertainment
On Christmas Day, the venue was filled with guests who received light refreshments upon arrival, followed by a delicious three-course meal featuring soup, turkey, ham, and all the trimmings, and Christmas pudding. Musicians and performers entertained the crowd, while over 300 volunteers distributed 5,000 dinners and 2,500 festive gift bags to those isolated in their homes.
Heartwarming Stories
Among the attendees were individuals like Daniel Brannagan, a former addict who expressed gratitude for the service and the volunteers who made it possible. Lauren O’Flaherty, who has been homeless for two years, shared her hopes of finding housing soon, while Matthew Brady, homeless for 15 years, appreciated the sense of community and support at the event.
Stories of Resilience
Maria Byrne, an institutional abuse survivor, highlighted the impact of the service in her life, emphasizing the importance of support and care. These personal stories shed light on the struggles and triumphs of those in need, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the community coming together on Christmas Day.
As the Knights of St Columbanus collaborated with various organizations to host the event, the spirit of giving and compassion shone brightly at the RDS, reminding us all of the true meaning of Christmas and the power of coming together to support one another.