The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE, Va. (VR)— The spirit of the holiday season filled the air as community members gathered for the annual Alleghany Highlands Christmas Mother Announcement, a cherished tradition that celebrates generosity, service, and the bonds of family and friendship.
This year’s event, held on September 11 at the Historic Masonic Theater, introduced Rachael Garcia Thompson as the 2025 Christmas Mother, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the beloved program. The event opened with a warm welcome to attendees, who were reminded of the importance of togetherness and the joy that comes from shared moments.
“What a joy it is to come together today to celebrate the season of Christmas and the wonderful bonds that we share as mothers, grandmothers, daughters, and friends,” said last year’s Christmas Mother, Ingrid Wallace Barber, setting the tone for an afternoon of gratitude and reflection. The luncheon, described as both a delicious meal and a time to pause and connect, was a testament to the caring community that supports the Christmas
Mother program year after year.
As the room settled, Ingrid called for a moment of silence to honor the victims and families affected by the September 11 attacks, as well as to remember the late Harriet “Dusti” Woodward and Connie Oliver, both of whom were instrumental in the program’s history. “Harriet Dusti Woodward was with our program for many, many years. She started as a secretary for the organization, and then became a very active, dedicated member of our board,” Mrs. Barber shared, underscoring the legacy of service that continues to inspire new generations of volunteers.
Following the invocation, which asked for blessings on the new Christmas Mother and all who serve, the event transitioned to the much-anticipated announcement. Last year’s Christmas Mother, Ingrid Barber, officially handed over the reins to Rachael Garcia Thompson, who was introduced with a
detailed account of her deep roots in the community and her extensive record of service. A native of Covington, Thompson resides with her husband, Brian, and their three children, Penelope, Price, and Pierce, along with their chocolate lab, Lady.
Her commitment to the Alleghany Highlands is evident in her numerous roles: she recently completed a three-year term as PTO president for Jeter Watson Elementary School and continues to serve as chairperson of the special events committee. Thompson is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Alleghany Foundation and has served on the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce board, including a term as president in 2018.
Her dedication extends to her faith community as well. Thompson is a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where she serves in children’s religious education and teaches Pre-K through first-grade classes, and leads children’s music. She and her family also attend Good News Church, where her husband is a member.
In her free time, Thompson is an avid runner, having completed two marathons. Thompson’s academic and professional achievements are equally impressive. She graduated as valedictorian from Covington High School in 2002, earned her bachelor’s degree magna cum laude from the University of Richmond in 2006, and completed her MBA at James Madison University, where she was named Outstanding Graduate of her class. She has also pursued additional graduate work in accounting from Liberty University and Southern New Hampshire University.
Professionally, Thompson spent eight years in hospitality sales at the Omni Homestead and the Greenbrier before serving as executive director of the Mountain Gateway Community College Educational Foundation. She now leads the business department at Mountain Gateway Community College, where she teaches a variety of business courses and advises the college’s honor society.
As the 2025 Christmas Mother, Thompson will oversee the program, which provides holiday assistance to families in need throughout Alleghany County.
This year’s theme, “Christ as your neighbor,” reflects the program’s mission of compassion and service.
Applications for assistance are open to county residents and can be submitted in person at Central United Methodist Church in Clifton Forge or First Christian Church in Covington on designated dates in November.
Applicants are required to bring identification, social security cards for all household members, proof of income, and documentation for any public assistance received.
Gift distribution is scheduled for December 15-17 at First Christian Church. For more information, applicants are encouraged to contact the Christmas Mother office or visit the program’s website.
The announcement concluded with a sense of hope and gratitude. “Thank you for being here, for bringing your spirit of joy and generosity, and for making this gathering so special,” Christmas Mother Rachael Thompson said, wishing all present a blessed and memorable Christmas season.
As the community looks ahead to the holidays, the legacy of service embodied by the Christmas Mother program continues to shine brightly, guided this year by the capable and compassionate leadership of Rachael Garcia Thompson.
Alleghany Highlands Christmas Mothers (David Hodge photo)
