It's Raining Gifts At The Feast Of The Three Kings

BARCELONA, Spain—Some 1,500 children up to 18 years old received gifts in the Raval district, from the Agape Intercultural Association, in partnership with the Jesus Reigns Ministry (JRM), headed by Pastora Mavic Pitogo, during Spain’s national Feast of the Three Kings.

The gift distribution formed part of the traditional Día de Reyes, Spain’s main holiday for children, and was open to all children in the district, regardless of nationality or background.

Now in its fifth year, the initiative has grown steadily under the leadership of Pastora Mavic Pitogo. What began with 300 children expanded to 500, 700, 1,000, and this year, 1,500 beneficiaries.

Donations came from various NGO associations, foundations, and private businesses. Additional gifts were purchased using JRM funds.

The yearly theme, “Toys That Make You Smile” (“Juguetes que te hacen sonreír”), guided the selection of gifts. Items were prepared according to age groups and included toys, clothes, books, school supplies, and practical necessities such as sunscreen, boots, mugs, baby thermometer set and baby teether.

To avoid long queues and manage the cold weather, organizers implemented an appointment-based system, requiring families to register online.

“Sa ngayon ang ginawa namin ay binigyan namin sila ng appointment para hindi sila sabay-sabay na pagpunta. Nag-register sila by internet. So yung mga bata, lalo na at malamig sa labas, ay hindi na sila maghihintay nang matagal bago mabigyan ng regalo,”Pastora Pitogo said.

She also highlighted the efforts of volunteers who worked late into the night preparing the gifts.

“Marami kaming mga volunteers. Kagabi hanggang 1:30 ng umaga, nagbabalot kami ng regalo for 1,500 children,” she added.

Beyond the Feast of the Three Kings, the activity is part of JRM’s wider community outreach. Pastora Pitogo noted that the ministry also runs a Casal de Verano or summer school program, which supported more than 100 children last year, particularly those whose parents work during school holidays.

Organizers expressed hope that the annual celebration will continue to grow, providing support and moments of joy to children and families in the Raval community.

In Spain, the Feast of the Three Kings, known as Día de Reyes, is a national tradition and the main day when children receive gifts. Celebrations begin on January 5 with the Cabalgata de Reyes, a colorful parade held in cities and towns nationwide. That night, children traditionally leave out milk, cookies, and water for the Three Kings and their camels, and on January 6, they wake up to find their presents—marking the highlight of the Christmas season for Spanish children.