For Advent, our middle and high school students kept the true focus of the season by doing Advent Buddies.  Each student selected another member of their class to be their secret 'Advent Buddy'.  The idea is similar to a secret Santa, but the focus was on messages of faith and hope during the Advent season.  We had shoe holders in the parish hall that served as mailboxes for the delivery of these special thoughts.  During the three weeks of Advent we had class, the kids wrote little notes of encouragement in their faith journey to their 'buddy' and placed them in their buddy's “mailbox” on their way to class.  After the initial giggles and “but what do I write?” the kids really appreciated this simple reminder to reach out to their friends with a kind note.  We hope they carry this lesson of thoughtfulness with them throughout the year.
 
Wednesday CCE adopted one of the families in need through our Mary’s Blessings ministry.  Because the youth were so generous last year, we chose a family of 6 this year to spread the wealth a bit.  The kids bought and wrapped presents for the child they were given.  We were so touched by the generosity of our CCE families!  Once again, we were able to share some of our blessings with a family that could use our support.