While no one was watching, some of Santa's helpers got to work in creating the 12 Days of a St. Raphael Christmas—a series of 12 different days/events throughout December that celebrate all that is St. Raphael and all that is Christmas! We'll be decorating cookies, saying hi to Santa, and enjoying the season as a St. Raphael family—with the parish and Raphael House included. Review the schedule of events and mark your calendars for whichever ones will add a little extra Christ to your Christmas.
Mass & Advent Wreath Workshop
Sponsored by St. Raphael Nursery School, after Mass families will make Advent wreaths, decorate cookies, and more.
Deck the Halls Day
We will adorn the outside of Raphael House with festive decorations, bringing Christmas cheer to the residents! Sign up here to help.
SRS Band & Choir Christmas Concert
St. Raphael School welcomes back this annual tradition! Please join our choir and band for an evening of Christmas music. The concert will be held in the all-purpose room at 7pm.
Courtesy of the 8th Grade Class, the halls of St. Raphael will come alive with Christmas. Be sure to check out their amazing door decorations.
Breakfast with Santa
A parish tradition, join us from 9-11am for breakfast foods, crafts, Santa's Secret Shop, raffles, and of course a visit from Santa himself! There is a $25 entry fee per family. RSVP to Peggy Weldon to make your reservation - space is limited!
Feast of St. Nicholas
Today we remember St. Nicholas, who was the Bishop of Myra (in modern day Turkey) during the Fourth Century. St. Nicholas is most well known in the West as the beloved patron saint of children and gift-giving. His connection to the American character of Santa Claus is faint, but can be traced. According to tradition, Nicholas’ parents died when he was young, leaving him a large sum of money. With his inheritance, Nicholas practiced charity, helping those in need.
In the Netherlands, Dutch children put out a clog filled with hay and a carrot for St. Nicholas' horse in hope that St. Nicholas would place coins, sweets or fruit on the soles.
At SRS and SRNS, our little guys and gals will do the same!
Middle School Gift Steal
Thou Shalt Not Steal…unless it is part of a very fun Christmas game! Middle School students are invited to meet in the APR after school (the fun will be over at 5pm) to participate in a White Elephant Exchange/Gift Steal. Bring a wrapped unisex Christmas gift of $10 or less with you and we'll take care of the rest. (Please seal gift bags so that there can be no peeking!)
t's Gingerbread time! Many families make the holidays merry by decorating gingerbread houses and/or people during Christmas. If this sounds like your family, then mark your calendar for a friendly gingerbread contest on Sunday, December 11th! Not a baker? No problem. You'll be able to impress our celebrity judge (Ms. Prinsloo!) just as easily by decorating one of the many kits available at your local grocery store, Target, etc.! Judging categories include Most Creative, Most School Spirit, and Best Non-Gingerbread Structure.
On this day, we remember that everyone should have a loving, caring home for the holidays. SRS and SRNS families are encouraged to support Raphael House as they continue to create a home away from home for the elderly. Please review the ink below for ways to contribute.
We know the teachers and staff are on Santa's 'good' list, but what will he bring? It's a secret for now, but rest assured it will involve some well-deserved self-care!
Pajama Day and 'Twas the Night Before Christmas Bedtime Story
Not only do the students get to attend school in their favorite Christmas pajamas, but they will also be treated to an evening of Mrs. Dwyer reading 'Twas the Night Before Christmas over Zoom. Zoom meeting info will be emailed as the event gets closer.
SRS and SRNS Christmas Pageants
Save the date to celebrate our children and wish Baby Jesus a Happy Birthday. The SRNS pageant will be held at 11:00am and the SRS pageant will be held at 2:00pm. Both pageants will be held in person. SRS pageant will also streamed on Facebook Live for those near and far. Details will be updated soon.
School Mass and Parties
SRS will mark the end of school and the beginning of Christmas break with Mass at 9:00 am and class parties. In addition, a second SRNS pageant will be held at 11:00am in person.
Holiday Cocktail Mixology Class
Learn to craft holiday cocktails with the help of bartender, Lidiana, who will host a free mixology class via Zoom on Saturday, 12/17 at 8 p.m.. Details in the Wednesday Weekly. (adults 21+ only).
