 |
|
| Students, teachers, and parents from St. Francis Xavier School in Cross Plains rang bells for the Salvation Army as a holiday service project. Over 20 families manned the red kettle at Walgreens in Cross Plains for combined total of 10 hours during the week of December 2. (Contributed photo) |
CROSS PLAINS — Students at St. Francis Xavier School focused on the true meaning of Christmas through prayer, service projects, and spreading holiday cheer.
During Advent, the entire school came together on Monday mornings for a prayer service. Surrounding a large Advent wreath, the students looked on as candles were lit. Students then took turns leading the school in prayer and singing.
Students in kindergarten, first, and fourth grade classes spread holiday cheer by caroling at local nursing homes.
St. Francis Xavier students, teachers, and parents rang bells for the Salvation Army as a holiday service project. Over 20 families participated, manning the red kettle at Walgreens in Cross Plains for combined total of 10 hours during the week of December 2.
Third grade teacher Debra Mauthe reported that the project was a huge success. “Students, parents, and family members appreciated the family-friendly opportunity to give back. They made it fun, too, by wearing Santa hats and even caroling for patrons.”
The red kettles raise an average of $50 per hour, which equates to about $500 collected by St. Francis Xavier for shelter and counseling for homeless families, emergency disaster services, and after-school activities for children at risk.
This year’s St. Francis Xavier Christmas Program, entitled “This is Christmas,” was directed by Lisa Kjentvet and Vicki Ripp. Students in grades K4 through eighth put on two shows showcasing their talents in song, dance, and instrumentation.
Narration throughout the program shared the true meaning of Christmas and asked the audience to reflect on that meaning and prepare their hearts for Christmas.