ASSINIBOIA -- To Christians, Christmas is more than just Santa and presents. St. George’s Parish Hall in Assiniboia held a unique event Dec. 1-2, free to the public, that showcased the story of Jesus’ birth that encompasses what Christmas is about.
Sue Robinson says, “Our CWL (Catholic Women's League) group decided to host this event to give us, and others, a special beginning to the Christmas season. A special remembrance of the "Reason for the Season". “
Robinson said the idea and project began over two months ago, asking everyone they know if they had something to share related to the nativity. The call-out resulted in more than 200 nativity sets, banners, angels, ornaments, advent calendars, books and more which equated to more than 300 displays.
“No two nativity sets were the same. They were such a variety. Hand made, antique, glass, ceramic, wooden, paper, knitted, and more, big and small,” adds Robinson.
With more than 50 members of the St. George CWL in Assiniboia, 30-40 of those being active, the exhibit took two and half days to set up. The preparation for this first-of-its-kind event included for guests, Christmas crafts, reading corner for children, a Christmas bake sale, a bistro, door prizes, live Christmas music and a silent auction of 18 wreaths that were donated by local businesses.
“The highlight of the event was the reactions from the people that attended, with many remarking that the exhibit was magical, amazing and beautiful, as well as others saying they felt moved by it,” says Robinson.
Although the Nativity exhibit was not specifically designed as a fundraiser, the CWL did make money which they will donate to charities that are in their league’s mandates.
The event was promoted by the CWL with posters around town and surrounding areas, radio coverage, social media posts and lots of help from word-of-mouth promotion.
Robinson acknowledges local businesses that generously donated items for bidding as well as the community choir for their beautiful live music presented, in addition to those who contributed their precious nativity items and of course, all those who attended.
Events like this do not happen, nor are they successful, without the many hands of organizers, volunteers and their families to fill the many tasks required from start to finish
Robinson also says, “The benefits? It is so rewarding to give of ourselves for others to feel such a sense of love for the real meaning of Christmas, the birth of Christ.”
