Christmas Day at the Center

Yesterday there wasn’t much concentration on anything to do with real work.  The clients were very happy and moved around gaily and there were cookies to be had! By this time of the year, they are pretty settled into the patterns and rhythms of the Center.

The first real event of the day was Christmas Mass. Usually, I don’t go, but this time we were invited specifically. There was to be special singing that Sr. Tess and a few of the individuals wanted us to hear.

The Mass started when Father Alfredo came. We have a chapel within the center that is simple, but beautiful. He puts on his robe in the sacristy in back of the alter after saying hello to everyone on his way through. The group just loves him. He is a Spanish priest who is able to speak to the group on their level. He talked about letting Jesus into your heart (unlike the innkeepers).

It was a very good service and there was good singing. Sr. Tess practices with them every morning. The main song was a gospel that some of the individuals made up by themselves. No one is particularly concerned with voices that are off key. There is so much love and spirit!

On Fridays after Mass, the group has "TownHall" with the other Q. Then they spend some small group time with their peers. Most of the staff have them finishing up on holiday projects. Then they were given a special hour long lunch. Sr. Tess runs the lunch period. With the extra time, she encouraged them to visit as if the relatives were over.  They enjoyed themselves!

There was a half hour to settle down before the party. The first part of the party was a sharing of songs. Each of the four groups had prepared something special and it turned into a sing-along. Then gifts were exchanged. Everyone loves this part! Afterward, we were treated by one of the mothers who does catering. We always bless this event! And, before the dancing began, Sr. Tess was given her gift.

Sr. Tess actually invited us (meaning "me") to the convent living room after everyone had left. She showed me that the angel was going to stand aside her (I can’t spell it, but it sounds like yadro) of Jesus. I think she was very happy with the gift. I like the part where she talks to just me afterward of her thoughts of the day. Felt wonderful and close.