To start off, everybody involved with FVM would like to wish you and your families a very Merry (belated) Christmas and New Year. This time of year is always crazy and hectic, and it is no different here at FVM.
Since we have descended from Mt. Irenaeus, the FVMs have been doing some amazing work. In Philadelphia, the FVMs ran the Christmas present effort for more than 50 children of the Inn. I can personally attest to the enormity of the undertaking, and must give them credit for getting it all finished and delivered in one piece. And if they didn't have enough on their plates already, they organized and threw the annual Inn Christmas Party. Some FVMs from Wilmington and Camden came to help serve pizza, cookies, and most importantly, presents from Santa himself to the almost 50 kids. It was a great event as always, and the FVMs should be credited for putting on such a great event for the kids.
In Camden and Wilmington, the FVMs took part in all of the Christmas festivities of their respective parishes of St. Anthony's of Padua and St. Paul's. Some of the FVMs also took part in what is now an annual event, heading to Georgia for the School of Americas protest just before Thanksgiving. The FVMs braved the 30 hour drive (round trip) to Ft. Benning to show their solidarity for the people of Latin America. Here is a link to the event: School of Americas Protest.
The FVMs in Camden and Wilmington both took part in Posadas as well during Advent. Posadas are the reenactment of Mary and Joseph asking if there is room at the inn, and the willingness of strangers to let them in. I was able to witness the Posada in the FVM home, and it was beautiful. There was singing, in Spanish and English, storytelling and a ridiculous amount of food.
So that is the abridged version of FVM for the past month. Hope you are all well, and we will be talking to you soon.
Matt
