Christmas hasn't always been a time of joy for Matt and Nicole.
But this Christmas represents a genuine fresh start for the family from Campbelltown.
Over the past few years,Matt, a trained labourer, has struggled to maintain full-time employment as he has coped with injury, illness and the instability of employment for those in casual labouring jobs.
Matt admits his struggles saw him hit the drink a bit too hard on occasion.
"The lifestyle we were living was leading us down a dark spiral,"said Matt.
"I could just feel myself slipping lower than low and our family values washing away. There were times when I valued myself as little as two dollars."
Anglicare was able to help them with food hampers and basic utility bills.As well as the food and the financial assistance, they were also invited to come along for a free BBQ and regular Bible talks.
"When Matt and Nicole first came to our free Tuesday BBQ, Matt said he hadn't made a commitment to Christ," said Wendy Estall, Manager for the Macarthur/Liverpool region.
"I am thrilled that they are now getting married and baptised."
According to Matt and Nicole, God has made a real difference in their lives. Matt has stopped drinking. Many of their friends have turned their backs on them, but they are gaining a new group through church.
Tuesdays now are much more than a free meal for Matt and Nicole. They thrive on the Bible teaching and fellowship.
"Being new Christians, Sunday is not enough," said Nicole.
"Tuesdays help us to grow."
According to Wendy, the support from people and parishes has been very encouraging.
"We are grateful for the love and generosity of Christians in our community in helping us reach out to the most vulnerable members in our community. If they hadn't donated money for hampers or other
emergency relief,we wouldn't be able to help people like Matt and Nicole," she said.
Christmas will be different this year.With Matt only able to work casually and Nicole pregnant with their fourth child, the financial strain is still there.
But this year they will be looking forward to celebrating the real joy of Christmas: the birth of Jesus.
