Christmas at the LaValla School

December, 2011

The LaValla School, run by the Marist Brothers from Australia, is a wonderful institution for children with moderate to severe physically disabilities. It is recognized by all as a real center of excellence, providing not only a good education but also a sense of self-worth and a real family spirit.

 Brother Darryl Slater, a Marist Brother who was at the school almost from its beginning ten years ago, died suddenly ten days ago. Today, before the Christmas celebration, his ashes were interred in a little grave next to the brothers' house at the school.
Opening the Christmas celebration

 

Then the Christmas celebration began with Touch Nimul, the director of the school, making the introductions.

 

As part of the celebration, the students--who are almost all Buddhists, were asked to write on a white paper dove the names of people they would like to pray for.

 

A group of students then acted out the events of the birth of Christ to familiarize them with the story.  The parts of the story were interspersed with Christmas songs and hymns.

 

Then all the students were invited to attach their white doves to a large backdrop set up at the front of the assembly area.

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