Christmas at St. Joseph’s Orphanage, Upper Hutt

New Zealand Tablet, 12 January 1922, Page 27

Christmas at St. Joseph’s Orphanage, Upper Hutt

Through'the thoughtfulness of numerous friends, both at Upper Hutt and in Wellington, the big family of babies and children at St. Joseph’s Orphanage were catered for in royal fashion on Christmas afternoon. In the large schoolroom attached to the institution were assembled over 400 little ones, their faces all aglow with joyful anticipation! A number of adult assistants and visitors interested in the children also helped to swell the assemblage. At 3 p.m. “Father Christmas” was due to alight from his big airship after a projected non-stop run from amongst the children of the Far North, and had in fact reached somewhere in the vicinity of the Rimutakas when a slight accident occurred. Ever resourceful, he happened to have his portable wireless plant with him, and so an urgent message was soon on its way to the orphanage advising them of the slight delay. This message was brought to the waiting children by the sister-in-charge, and far from causing any s disappointment only seemed to make them all the more excited, especially when the Sister mentioned that a search party had been sent out to bring in Santa Claus. Shortly after cheers were heard—Santa Claus had arrived, and was soon surrounded by the children, to whom he related all about his wonderful visits to the many parts of the earth—the best spot being, of course, their own home—St. Joseph’s Orphanage. A large Christmas tree had been erected in the middle of the spacious hall, and this and » the surroundings had been changed into a veritable fairyland, with bunting, flags, umbrellas,, toys, the work of Messrs. A. Lutz and B. Martin, whilst most of the fancy decorations had been made by the-untiring Sisters themselves. After the distribution of gifts, “Father Christmas” arranged games, and executed some dances for the children, which they greatly enjoyed. Then came his aero- _ plane and a reluctant good-bye, with the expressed hope that he would come again next year. The Sisters of Mercy tender their sincerest thanks and warmest appreciation to the various friends in Wellington who donated so generously, also to the committee at Upper Hutt, and the many benefactors throughout the' year.