A St. Mary’s Christmas Celebration

By Chuck Stewart, Jr.
(Newburgh) - “Santa and Mrs. Claus are in the gym at St. Mary’s,” children were saying Saturday morning. The word quickly spread around the neighborhood surrounding St Mary’s Church.When the rumors were confirmed, the line began forming. At first, there were only a few. But the line quickly grew, out the parking lot, then around the corner.Volunteers Lilly and Josie greeted the youngsters at the door, giving them the golden ticket to see Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Volunteers from the youth ministry also assisted in navigating the many children who came to see Santa.The gym was beautifully decorated with Christmas trees in celebration of the holiday season.“Every year they do such a wonderful job,” exclaimed Father William Scafidi, as he looked around the St Mary’s Gym. The church, its members, and volunteers, put in plenty of hours of their time to make the holiday season a little brighter for children in the surrounding community. All the toys were donated by, Toys for Tots, church members and community organizations. With the toys pilled high, Santa and Mrs. Claus in place, the children were led in to see the man from the North Pole. One by one, the children sat on Santa and Mrs Claus’ lap, had their picture taken and received a special present. The volunteers also had milk, cookies and sandwiches waiting for the children after their visit.Youth Group Minister Pam Krizek said, looking around the gym, “this is what it’s all about. Just seeing the smiling faces on all these kids faces and knowing how happy they are. That’s the Christmas spirit.”

Pictured Above From Top to Bottom: Santa and Mrs. Claus pose for a picture with church and youth volunteers at the St. Mary’s Church annual Christmas Party to help ring in the holiday season.

Santa and Mrs. Claus pose for a picture with children after they received a special gift at the St. Mary’s Church annual Christmas party last Saturday.