By THÉRÈSE MARGOLIS

Red and green were the themes of the American Benevolent Society’s (ABS) annual Christmas community luncheon on Friday, Dec. 13.

More than 60 people showed up for the festive meal at Mexico City’s Union Church auditorium, where they were welcomed by ABS president Bill Biese and ABS executive director Aliki Alias.

The homemade lunch included baked ham, creamed yams, steamed green beans, fruit and Jell-o salad, cranberry sauce, apple sauce, mixed nuts and chocolate mints, and as a special treat, guests were invited to enjoy a choral performance of the church’s choir singing an array of Christmas carols.

Later, all those in attendance joined in to sing Christmas carols and wish one another a wonderful holiday season and happy 2020.

And to ensure that the luncheon was as religiously inclusive as possible, there was also a table set up with a Hanukkah menorah and dreidels, courtesy of Pedro de Koster of the Salvation Army.

Founded in 1868, the American Benevolent Society is a nonprofit organization that provides charitable assistance to both U.S. and Mexican nationals during periods of personal distress or financial need.