Conselve (Padua)
The "Rays of Sunshine" community launches its Christmas season two weeks early by setting up a stall at the local Caritas market. Members sell handcrafted items to raise money for projects overseas. It's a way to remind people of those in need, to join in a parish initiative, and to introduce others to what Fede e Luce does.
On Christmas Eve, some members revive an old tradition: they walk through town singing "Chiarastella," an ancient carol announcing Jesus's birth. Some play instruments, some sing, some dress as shepherds.
On Christmas evening around seven, the community gathers at the parish center to exchange wishes. At eight, they all visit a particularly struggling family from the group to share food and celebrate together.
(Reported by Cesarina Bertin)
Perugia
The "Il Cammino" community meets on a Sunday morning before Christmas to decorate the hall—sometimes building a tree—and to collect small gifts that members have brought. They pile them in a basket.
The afternoon turns to the meaning of Christmas. Through a story or a pantomime in which everyone joins, they act out and reflect on passages from the Gospel.
Then come songs and games, and the highlight: Santa Claus arrives and hands out the gifts from the basket, one to each person.
The day ends with Mass, the altar decorated with a nativity scene.
(Reported by Beatrice Pelliccia)
Rome
The Saint Valentine group gathers on the Sunday before Christmas for a joyful gathering filled with warmth. Everyone wants to share with the others the love and hope that Christmas awakens in their hearts. The day begins with Mass at the parish church.
What follows unfolds in three parts.
First comes a time of remembrance—bringing alive for everyone the event they are celebrating. Scenes come to life: an old song sung by one person or all together; passages from the Gospel read aloud and discussed; poems recited or acted out by children and adults alike. Often it's a blend of everything. The details matter—the costumes, the tunics, the angel wings, Mary's blue cloak.
Next comes the gift exchange. A makeshift but entirely convincing Santa Claus pulls presents from his sack and passes them around with jokes and riddles.
Finally—and no less important—comes a good meal. At Fede e Luce, no celebration is complete without food shared together. It's what binds people closer and brings joy to all.
(Reported by Lucia Bertolini)