Some Shining Moments
a pair of special memories illuminate the spirit of the season
Christmas Eve Magic
Growing up in my family, my parents had rules to be followed at Christmas. On the Eve, the four of us children would go to bed before the tree was up. The Christmas train platform was decorated but no sign of a tree.
We were poor, not desperately, but not wealthy. My Dad would go out on Christmas Eve to buy a tree. Frequently it would be some pathetic leftover that no one had purchased. In the morning when we woke up and came downstairs, the tree was lit magically and shone it’s brightest. No one was allowed to eat anything or touch a spied-on gift until after the celebration of Christmas Mass.
Our family would be sure to visit both sets of Grandparents, no matter what! I remember tinsel-decorated trees at their house and lots of cousins. We came from a pretty large, extended family and sharing at least part of the day made it very special to me.
— Sharon Penater (Associate)
Our Wait Is Nearly Over
As part of our outside Christmas display, a large stable is put by the front entrance at Mt. Assisi Place (formerly Mount Assisi Convent). In the stable are placed Mary, Joseph and the crib. Jesus is not put in the crib until it gets closer to Christmas. I happened to be outside right before Christmas when some visitors were coming in. A small girl ran over to the crib, excitedly clapped her hands and said, “He’s here! He’s here!” Yes, Jesus is here.
— Sister Joyce Burkhart
