A Christmas Celebration at Maria’s Big House of Hope

We’ve had so much fun celebrating Christmas at Maria’s Big House of Hope. Our days have been full of Christmas crafts, caroling, baking cookies, and even a live Nativity scene.

Each of the children who attend preschool has a stocking, and they get a new treat in it every day. Checking stockings quickly became a favorite part of their class time! Whether they reach in to find a sucker, a pack of stickers, or a little toy, they are giddy with excitement. The preschool classroom is full of Christmas crafts like a handprint wreath, paper chains, a Christmas tree, and a Nativity made from their footprints and handprints.

One of our most fun (and a little bit crazy!) memories of this season was our live Nativity, complete with a Mary and Joseph, three wise men, three shepherds, two sheep, two donkeys, a cow, and an angel. The children were hilarious as we herded them in front of our manger scene and tried to snap their photos. They looked adorable, and our angel stole the show as Mary adored, hugged, and kissed all over baby Jesus.

A favorite Christmas tradition at our Care Centers is caroling to each of the rooms. The kids love to crawl over the guitars, and they dance and clap along with the music. It’s so fun to watch Christmas songs bring them joy. 

We’ve also had the chance to make a fingerprint ornament with each child at Maria’s. Lots of them giggled whenever we squished their little fingers into the clay dough, and now the ornaments proudly hang on our Christmas tree. Each of the children is such a delight, and we love being able to celebrate with them.

Thank you for playing a part in these children’s lives, either by prayer or support. You are making a difference. It is such a blessing to care for them and to know them, and this wouldn’t be possible without your support. We’re soaking up every bit of this Christmas season as we make memories with each of them.

Merry Christmas!