Children's Christmas Story
Tuesday, December 19, 2000

Note: Images of the Childrens Christmas Eve Mass can be seen here.

On Tuesday December 19th, this 2000th Year of Our Lord, Christmas was celebrated again for the children of St. Joan of Arc; with songs retelling the very first Christmas; with laughter from children of ALL ages for whom Christmas is still a time of gladness. The program consisted of a series of nine readings interspersed with singing provided by the different grades from school, with one of the songs using all of the grades. The music was as glorious as a choir of angels!

I was referred to Director Lisa Schwanke, who indicated that Christmas programs are something she is involved in regularly. Lisa explained that the readings were a modern interpretation of the Christmas story from Luke's Gospel provided by Craig Wright. The songs in between the readings sounded familiar enough, although I wasn't able to follow the verses. Karen Wendt explained later that they had the children learn new words to these songs to make it new and different for them; and perhaps to make it seem like more of their own story to those attending. She had the responsibility for preparing the pre-school and kindergarten group.

I learned that one major difference in this year's celebration was the lack of costumes, which are usually a part of this annual event. It was explained that they typically break the children into groups needed for separate skits or 'acts' and practice in different locations in the parish office building. Since the building is still being remodeled they decided to simplify this year's preparation and go without costumes.

The level of excitement provided by the children seemed contagious, keeping us aware of what was going on...though Jeff Rholl remarked he was asked when it would be time for the cake so often he wasn't sure he could remember what he heard and saw! So I asked some children what they thought of the story, and one girl proceeded to explain how a new friend had told her own stories throughout the entire event, which she thought was just "wonderful"! Thus, the event seems to have given rise to more than one story during the evening, as it must always be for the many different children who feel free to do so. Even Lisa Schwanke had her own story when she exclaimed: "THIS is MY Christmas!"

Ray Tanis is a farmer, masquerading as an engineer, with a passion for writing... Kids are grown, so concentrates on sunflowers and pumpkins. Ray loves writing poetry and music.

Peg LaSota is interested in the biographies of parishioners... any suggestions?? She also loves studying piano, recorder, Spanish, and of course...singing in the choir!