Youth from the parishes in Freeport, New Munich and St. Rosa spent a Saturday afternoon and evening bringing holiday cheer to people in need.
The first stop Dec. 10 was Eagle’s Healing Nest in Sauk Centre, a place for veterans to heal and get help transitioning back to civilian life. The youth helped the veterans decorate the chapel for Christmas and sang carols during dinner.
“It’s good for them to share their Christmas spirit and to see others enjoying what they are sharing,” said Amy Hoeschen, coordinator of youth and family ministry and faith formation for the tri-parish community of Sacred Heart (Freeport), Immaculate Comception (New Munich) and St. Rose of Lima (St. Rosa).
The youth also sang carols for residents of Pine Villa Care Center in Melrose, Tree of Life in New Munich, and Freeport Square Apartments. They enjoyed a pizza dinner provided by Catholic United Financial and ended with a Mass at St. Rose of Lima Church.
“I love to sing and I love to share my music with other people,” said Anna Wilwerding, a ninth-grader at Melrose High School. “I really feel a joy just being able to help other people to have Christmas spirit, and the decorating was really fun.”
Residents at Pine Villa even sang along to some German carols. “People everywhere were moved by the youth caroling and didn’t want us to leave,” Hoeschen said. “Our presence made a difference to them.”
Eighth-grader Nathaniel Welle said it made him feel good to be part of the group sharing their gift of song with others. “Maybe some people need it more to heal,” he said.