Staff from a Dublin cathedral have urged the public to reconsider exchanging unwanted Christmas gifts and instead donate them to a leading homeless charity.
St Mary's Pro Cathedral have asked that those unwanted gifts be given to them so they can donate them to Crosscare.
The charity helps those most in need, including families, young people living on the margins of life in city and the homeless.
A cathedral spokesperson said: "Throughout 2019, unwanted gifts that were donated this time last year were distributed to families who spent time in Crosscare’s Family Hub in Drumcondra when they were moving on to new accommodation.
"It meant that families had some extra luxury items to help decorate their new homes.
"Unwanted gifts were also given out throughout the year to men and women in homeless services run by Crosscare who may not receive a birthday gift or treat during the year."
Staff at the Pro Cathedral will be available at the masses listed below to accept gift donations from the public. They also ask that no food or non-perishable items are donated.
St. Stephen’s Day
Mass at 10.30 a.m.
Church opens at 10.00 a.m. and will remain open to receive unwanted gifts until 12 noon
Friday 27 December
Mass at 10.30 a.m.
Church open from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Saturday 28 December
Mass Times: 10.30 a.m. + 6.00 p.m. (Vigil)
Sunday 29December
The Holy Family of Jesus Mary and Joseph
Mass Times: 9.30 a.m., 11.00 a.m. + 6.00 p.m.
Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 December
Mass at 10.30 a.m.
Church open from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
