Recreating the Christmas spirit... Jimmy S. sits in the FFS chapel next to the manger that he, Brian O., and the maintenance staff built for the community in time for Christmas.
FFS Student Jimmy S. Creates a Manger for the Christmas Eve Mass
By Evan H.
Jimmy S. is a 14-year-old from Tannersville, Pennsylvania. He arrived at The Family Foundation School on September 29, 2008 after having trouble at home and in school.
Fifteen months later, he has put those problems behind him a day at a time and is reaping the benefits of the program. “[FFS] has helped me tremendously and I am, for the most part, genuinely happy,” he said.
In early December, Father Stephen Morris, FFS Dean of Students, asked Jimmy if he would build a mini-manger for the Christmas Eve Mass in the school’s chapel. “I enjoy building things and I wanted to help Father Stephen, so I took on the challenge,” said Jimmy.
With help from his good friend Brian O. and the maintenance staff, including Ed Anderson, Joe C., Chris Evanitsky, Tom Milk, Russ Mosher, Randy Whiting, and Aaron Z., the manger was completed five days later.
“I feel happy knowing that I helped my friend as well as the school, and I am grateful for gaining a stronger connection with my higher power,” said Brian.
The manger was bedecked with spruce boughs, straw, dried flowers and pine branches and sparkled with tiny flickering lights. It housed the figures of the infant Jesus, Joseph, Mary and the three wisemen.
“It made a beautiful and peaceful addition to the service,” said Talbot House student Cresse M.
When asked what he hopes the community will receive from his efforts, Jimmy replied, “I hope the school gets a sense of unity, and that the manger will improve the Christmas experience.”
