There is a cute Christmas song that begins with the verse “Jolly old Saint Nicholas … Lean your ear this way! Don’t you tell a single soul … what I’m going to say. Christmas Eve is coming soon; Now, you dear old man … Whisper what you’ll bring to me; Tell me if you can.”
I like this song for two reasons: one, it’s catchy. And two, it refers to Santa Claus with his original name – St. Nicholas – which isn’t something we see too much of anymore in today’s more secularized society. But the reality is, Santa Claus is indeed rooted in Christian tradition and on December 7, a group of approximately 50 lucky children discovered what that tradition is all about.
Last Sunday, the Little Sisters hosted their annual St. Nicholas Day Party for the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren of our Residents, employees, and friends. At the party, the children were entertained with a video all about the story of St. Nicholas and how this man, who was born into a wealthy family, rose to become a bishop and later a saint. Following the story, the children were treated to a visit from St. Nicholas himself (well almost … our dear chaplain, Father E. Francis Kelly, is such a good sport and always portrays the saint for this special event!) After the children shared their Christmas wishes with the “jolly old saint,” they enjoyed a light luncheon of hot dogs, cookies, and punch. Following the lunch, the children were delighted to discover St. Nicholas left each of them a bag of gold coins (well in our case, gold chocolate coins) just as he did for the poor many years ago.
It really was a very nice party for children of all ages that not only provided them with a festive and fun afternoon but more importantly a lesson in sharing and caring in the Christian tradition.
Until next time,
Jackie
