2004 Miracle Yearbook

Christmas Activities QMidrna4 eg3emond -aetiapeitte This year, as melodies from Chuck'ssinging elvesandthearomaof freshly-bakedcookiesfrom"LittleTown of Lights" filled the air, Cedarville brotherand sister units took the time to minister to the community. Units volunteered in diverse ways,fromsoup kitchens to nursing homes or on community maintenance projects. Over all, the students enjoyed the opportunities to spend time with their friends while serving someone else. Junior Ethan Merck recounted his experience: "We went out to the Ridgewood Nursing Home in Springfieldtogocarolingroombyroom and talk with the residents. It was a wonderfulopportunitytogetoutintothe community! The people were glad that we were even there. One lady named Florence would hardly let us leave! At the end ofevery song she'd say,'You kids are doingagoodjob. Sing another one.' We also made Christmas cards for allofthem—itwasa personaltouch that really meant a lot. As I was leaving, I walked by one of the first rooms we visited. The lady there was sitting in achair still holding hercard in both hands and reading it." Aswellascreatinggood memories, the ministry projects encouraged students to check their perspectives on life during a time when it is easy to worry about things like tests, papers, and finances. Junior Sara Firebaugh said, "For our Brother/Sister service projectthis year,eightofus wentto the DaytonGospelMissiontoserveameal. The director and his wife greatly appreciated our help because they did not have enough volunteers for that evening. Everyone who went enjoyed serving the community and sharing the love of Christ to the people who ate there,and the experience caused us to remember how fortunate we are." 62 Harvest Andrew Ralon and his three buddies check out the ladies'poofs during Open House. "I'm sorry to report that my attempts were unsuccessful," states Jon Daizello. "It was certainly fun to try though." Two students dress up in Santa outfits to spread cheer throughout the dorms.(Top) teE SAT, Aln f 4,101 --441111. -am•