On December 28 – Holy Innocents Day, the true meaning of Christmas was present in the parish of San Rafael . This came about when Fr Michael Moses and the St Vincent De Paul Society brought the Christmas joy especially to the less fortunate children of the parish.

Frs Moses and Vincent Pazhukkakulam celebrated the Mass. There were more than 100 children in attendance. During the homily the children were questioned on the meaning of ‘innocence' and the true meaning of Christmas. They readily supplied answers. They were told that they all had a Guardian Angel and were encouraged to learn and pray the Guardian Angel prayer twice daily.

Those who knew the prayer came forward on Father's prompting and said the prayer. At the sign of peace Fr Moses sang a special song where we all followed the instructions in the song. The children even adults were in stitches. Before the final blessings the children were all anointed with oil by both priests.

The children, parents and guardians all proceeded to the parish hall. The excitement and joy could be seen on their faces and in their actions. Santa made his appearance, jolly as usual Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas. He had a sing along with the children before he began his official duties. Each child who did not receive a gift over the Christmas holidays was presented with a gift from Santa who was assisted by his helpers (elves!).

Santa makes an appearance

Santa made sure each child received his or her blessing with Holy water from Fr Moses. Fr Vincent, dressed as a magician, entertained us with some amazing tricks.

He made items disappear and reappear, sugar became candies, which he threw into the crowd, different coloured scarves became one lovely tye-dyed scarf. For his grand finale he ate an entire newspaper and then proceeded to pull from his mouth beautiful, brightly coloured streamers.

Refreshments were then served, the children were given snack bags and they could not stop chattering. Each child left there feeling that they were special and loved.

Hats off to Frs Moses and Vincent, Santa, members of the St Vincent de Paul society of Talparo, Brazil and San Rafael, Rupert, Kevin, Kervin, Keegan, Edel and others for giving of their time, talent and treasure which made such a big difference in the lives of these special children.