Rosmini wins Award for Intergenerational Choir
Rosmini community school was awarded the Age Friendly University (AFU) Intergenerational Solidarity and Co-operation between the Generations Award 2018 by Christine O' Kelly, AFU Global Co-ordinator for their wonderful intergenerational choir with older people resident in Nazareth House carer home.
As part of their Saint Vincent de Paul Befriending Project, Transition Year students formed the choir with the elderly residents of Nazareth House care home. The purpose of this project was to engage in social outreach and to experience, first hand, how the lives of others can be enriched by volunteering one's time, gift and talent.
On Monday 20th November 2017, students rehearsed Christmas carols with the residents of Nazareth House under the direction of Music teacher, Ms Mullen, and Chaplain, Mr Gueret. After taking part in an icebreaker activity to get to know one another, students and residents sang festive favourites such as Jingle Bells, Winter Wonderland and Merry Christmas. It was so lovely to see the elderly residents of Nazareth House take part in the choir rehearsal. They seemed to enjoy the company of the students and showed great enthusiasm for the carol singing.
On Monday 11th December 2017, Transition Year students took part in a Christmas Carol Service with the residents of Nazareth House. The story of Jesus’s birth was brought vividly to life through the readings and reflections that were shared by the students. A beautiful sacred space was prepared with the scene of the Nativity at the centre. Celebrants were encouraged to bring peace and joy to the people of the world, especially to those who are most vulnerable in society. Ms Mullen led our students and residents in renditions of festive favourites. Transition Year students prepared a table of Christmas treats for the residents of Nazareth House and enjoyed good conversation with them over a nice warm cup of tea.
This Befriending Project is part of Rosmini's Transition Year students’ participation in the Young SVP Programme. Our Christmas Carol Celebration in Nazareth House has given these students a wonderful opportunity to experience - first hand - the gift of volunteering in their local community.