The St. Joseph’s Conquest group in Arlington, Texas does something very special each year before Christmas. They boys, dads, and their complete families share the love and joy of the season with the elderly. The Conquest families have been visiting the Mansfield Nursing Home, in Mansfield, Texas for five years now. This is an on-going annual apostolic project that touches both the residents of the home, but the boys and their families as well.
On December 17th, the visit included singing Christmas carols to about 20 residents. The boys had made Christmas cards for the residents in advance, and took time to visit with them and give them the cards. One of the Conquest members also played the piano for residents who enjoyed the Christmas music and spirit.
Long Nguyen, the Conquest leader stated “The boys look forward to this activity each year around Christmas time. I know that the residents really enjoy our visits. They are often lonely and they are always glad to see the children. You can tell by the smiles on their faces. We stress to the kids that this activity is about living out the beatitudes….I was lonely and you visited me, etc. I think it is good for the children to know that there is much more to life than just receiving, but rather giving.”