A holiday tradition that started during the pandemic continues to spread joy throughout the St. James community, and this year it’s reaching even more people.
About six years ago, a teacher at a St. James-Assiniboia School Division school asked her Grade Seven students to create a special batch of handmade ornaments to gift to the community.
This year, a second school, George Waters Middle School, has joined the initiative, making even more ornaments to distribute to area residents.
“For Bruce kids, this will be our sixth year hanging ornaments in the green space in front of Grace Hospital along the path by Sturgeon Creek,” said Erin Acorn, a teacher in the St. James -Assiniboia School Division. “This is the first year for George Waters in this project. Our ornaments will be hung in Bruce Park in the coming days.”
Students put a lot of thought into each ornament, planning their designs before painting them on round pieces of wood.
Some of the ornaments have just one word, such as believe or hope. Others have quotes like, ‘You are loved,’ ‘Shine bright,’ and ‘Be the light.’
Acorn says The images and messages are inspired by classroom lessons, including our exploration of mental health, the Seven Sacred Teachings and the seven natural ways of healing.
“Our students are very excited to share these with you, and will be hanging them on community walks throughout the week.”
Acorn is encouraging area residents to go on a walk and take a look at the ornaments later this week.
“When an ornament speaks to you, please take it as a gift from us,” said Acorn. “Have a safe and happy holiday season.”
