Being home for Christmas is tough when you don't have a home. But for one afternoon at least, the Central Union Church Parish Hall acted as a home and dining hall to more than 200 homeless and transitional people.

Staffed by members of the congregation and community who volunteered their time cooking, serving and organizing, the Home for Christmas luncheon spread aloha with live music, gift-giving and an appearance by Santa.

"The response has been amazing," said the Rev. Dean Vestal, minister in charge of seniors and visitation, who has been involved with the homeless outreach program for several years.

"We target the homeless population who are involved in our ministry at Kaka'ako park, but also those in transition. Recently we've begun more outreach to the elderly and people who would normally be alone on Christmas."

The meal started three Christmases ago, after the closure of Ala Moana Beach Park forced more than 200 homeless people to go elsewhere. Because of heavy rain that winter, Central Union Church opened up its parish hall for the displaced to eat and sleep.

"We decided to have them come back each Christmas," Vestal said. "That's why we call it Home for Christmas."

Sharonelle Beltran came with her boyfriend, Richard Laumauna, her daughter Stella and 4-year-old Elisabeth Reyong.

"It brings joy to me to be here," she said. "The pastor invited us and we decided to come ... it's awesome. I'm kind of stuffed right now."

Beltran and her boyfriend live in a truck.

The annual dinner brought out slightly more people than usual, according to staff.

"We prepared food for 200, and we've served about 220 so far," said Leonora Espania, director of food services for Central Union Church, who was also volunteering her time.

"It's a good liturgy for the church to do this. Everyone wants to do something, but they don't quite know what to do. Anything you do now is appreciated."

Paul Hamilton, who was baptized at Central Union Church as a baby and is now homeless, is a regular to the church's outreach programs. He helps the church set up for outreach in the park.

"Being here is a testament to God's love," he said. "It's all about love, and this is a demonstration of that fact. We wouldn't wish (homelessness) on anyone, but it's an experience that's life- changing."

The Rev. Radigan David, associate minister for park ministry and outreach, brings food to the homeless in Kaka'ako Waterfront Park every Thursday evening.

"This morning, my congregation in the park gave me a card," he said. "A lot of them wanted to come volunteer today and serve the others, but ... I had to talk them out of it. Today they're the guests."

Reach Tracy Chan at tchan@honoluluadvertiser.com.