Twinkling lights sparkle on the Christmas tree in the lobby, in the dining room and on each of our Resident’s units. The melodious sounds of carolers resonate through the halls. The Christmas baking aroma of vanilla, cinnamon and ginger escape from the kitchen teasing our taste buds. It’s no doubt that Christmas is near!
They say Christmas is for children, but we find that we are all children at heart. The joy and anticipation that surrounds this beautiful celebration is readily apparent among our Residents, Little Sisters, staff and volunteers.
We are very grateful to all of our friends who try to make this time extra special! Many schools and parishes collect food and sundry items for us. Several groups bring wrapped gifts, ensuring that the memorable Christmas tradition of gift giving and receiving continues.
As in any family, traditions allow us to spend time together having fun, which strengthen our close ties as a St. Joseph Family. We have many Christmas traditions that not only bring us joy, but allow us to grow closer to one another.
As a small token of our appreciation, we host a Christmas volunteer luncheon to honor those who have reached out with their hearts and hands in service to lighten our tasks in meeting the many needs of our Residents.
We are fortunate to have a jolly Resident St. Nick (aka Bob Guretz), who shares his time and patience at our annual St. Nicholas Day Party for our Staff and their children. The happiness and anticipation on the children’s faces is contagious and everyone, including the adults, leave with a smile.
We believe that the timeless magic of Christmas can touch us at any age. With that spirit, we come together as a family to celebrate a special tradition, our Christmas Gala. With a different theme each year, Chefs Andy Webber and Tony Stallone donate their time and talents to prepare a five-star gourmet meal. Employees dress up in festive costumes to escort and entertain our Residents. Strolling minstrels fill the room with the sweet sounds of Christmas. While everyone would agree that this evening fills us to the brim with love and joy, there is often a debate as to who enjoyed this special time the most: our Residents or the volunteers and employees who were there to serve!
Santa takes time from his busy schedule to spend an afternoon giving out gifts to each Resident. Along with the gifts, our kitchen staff never ceases to surprise and tantalize us with their creative and delicious Christmas treats!
Culminating the Advent Season is our Christmas Eve Mass. It is our tradition that a Resident bring the Infant Jesus to the creche where He is finally placed in His manager. With this, the time has finally come to Rejoice!
Traditions of Christmas