An annual Christmas event that draws tens of thousands of people to a Coast church will not go ahead this year, in what is being called a “bittersweet” move.
The popular Christmas at Lifepointe has been held at the Buderim church for the past 20 years, including last year even after much of the building was devastated by a fire in January 2023.
But with construction on a new building getting underway, this year’s event will not proceed.
“Over 20 years we have absolutely loved bringing joy, family traditions and a message of hope to the Sunshine Coast community,” a social media post by Lifepointe said.
“Last year after our Lifepointe building burnt down we had the privilege of bringing you our Christmas event under the stars.
“This year is bittersweet for us as we are excited to finally start construction on our new building, but for this reason we will not be able to hold our Christmas at Lifepointe event this year.
“We have always looked forward to seeing you at Christmas and we will miss seeing you, your family and friends enjoying the fun and we can’t wait to be back!”
In a video posted to social media, Senior Pastor Phil Greenbury said last year’s “under the stars” event was a resounding success.
“Once again, it was an amazing time with 30,000 people coming through the premises,” he said.
“We had our open-air stage where the building used to be; we had the animal farm; we had JC Action Sports; we had the Tunnel of Lights; we had the food trucks.
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“Many families here on the Sunny Coast just enjoyed Christmas once again.
“The good news is, as soon as our buildings are rebuilt, we will be back once again with the excitement of Christmas here at Lifepointe.
“We want you to know this Christmas that you really do matter.”
Worship director Anna Golding echoed Pastor Greenbury’s message.
“Even though we can’t do Christmas at Lifepointe this year, we’re still passionate about Christmas. We still believe Christmas matters,” she said in the video.
“It’s so sad we won’t see you amongst the popcorn, the fairy floss and the animal farm. We are as disappointed as you are.
“We look forward to seeing you every year and hosting you just as much as you love coming.”
