WAKEFIELD — In a departure from tradition, Monsignor Clarke School substituted its annual bazaar with a unique and immersive experience: a Drive-Thru Living Nativity. This innovative event aligned seamlessly with the school's mission, providing the community with a meaningful and spiritually uplifting experience.
The enchanting experience unfolded as attendees drive through a carefully crafted depiction of the Nativity story, brought to life by the efforts of the school's Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) and dedicated student and parent volunteers. Visitors received a link to listen to the prerecorded narrated story. This recording was produced by Ron Cowie, Oyster Farm Production and features celebrity narration by WPRI Channel 12 co-anchor, Shannon Hegy along with the students of Monsignor Clarke School.
"The decision to replace our annual bazaar with a Drive-Thru Living Nativity was driven by a desire to create a community-wide event that closely aligns with our school's mission. We believe this innovative approach will provide a more immersive and spiritually enriching experience for our community," says Dr. Arthur Lisi, principal.
In addition to the enchanting Nativity scenes sponsored by each of the local Catholic parishes and live animals that bring the story to life, the Drive-Thru Living Nativity was adorned with sponsored Christmas trees. Families and local businesses have generously sponsored these trees, contributing to the festive ambiance of the event. Each tree was creatively decorated, adding a touch of magic to the celebration.
Following the event, these Christmas trees and decorations were carefully boxed up and delivered to local Wakefield resident, Wendi Knowles. Knowles, known for her annual collection to support families in need, will distribute the trees and decorations to bring joy and warmth to households during the holiday season.
"This reflects the heart of our school's core value of service. By involving our community in sponsoring and decorating Christmas trees, and then extending the joy to those in need, we are actively living out the spirit of Christmas and making a positive impact on the lives of others," says Sara Marshall, director of Admissions & Development at Monsignor Clarke School.
Monsignor Clarke School invited the entire community to join in the Drive-Thru Living Nativity event to experience the magic made possible by the generous support of Beltone New England, Knights of Columbus, and the local parishes. The school held a family night on December 7 and was opened to the public on Saturday, Dec. 9. Between the two nights, approximately 188 cars came through the campus. The school would like to thank those who supported this event that they hope offered a beacon of light, and a reminder of the timeless messages of love, hope, and faith that the Christmas season embodies.
