Santa brings smiles and Christmas magic to St. Francis Xavier Church

By Kendra Simpson

For thirteen years, St. Francis Xavier Church and the Knights of Columbus have been welcoming Santa and Mrs. Clause for a breakfast and story time to celebrate the Christmas season.

“It’s something that all the guys enjoy doing,” the Council Financial Secretary, Gordon Carmichael, said. “This time of the year is the magical time of year. We try to put a smile on the kids faces with Santa”

After a read aloud of the classic Christmas tale, “The Nutcracker”, the kids got to sit with Mr. and Mrs. Clause and share their Christmas wishes.

“I enjoy just listening to them,” Santa said. “And more than what they ask for for Christmas is looking into their eyes. And you can see Christmas written all over their faces…It’s just the innocence of children and that, to me, is what Christmas is all about.”

“They’re so loving,” Mrs. Clause said. “They come up, they want to hug and tell us what they fun. It’s just a fun experience. It’s rewarding.”

Even though this is the busiest time of year for Santa and Mrs. Clause, they will continue to visit several events and locations in St. Joseph throughout the season.