Students Help Children Have “Smashing” Holiday Season
Regent University students walked out their faith by helping others celebrate the birth of Jesus. Eleven students traveled to St. Mary’s Home in Norfolk, Virginia, on Friday, Nov. 21, as part of a weekly service opportunity known as “Good Fridays.”
St. Mary’s Home is a longterm residential facility that cares for children and adults with severe disabilities. Regent students helped children create Christmas cards and cooked-up cupcakes. The cards, using a technique known as “smash art,” expressed thanks to donors who help make the home possible.
“This past Good Friday was special because we got to work in a home for disabled children, one of about 100 in all of America,” said Hanna Bishop, service coordinator for Regent’s Campus Ministries.
Participants say they were touched by the residents and that they really enjoyed themselves. The mission of Good Fridays is to give students a weekly opportunity to live out their faith in Christ and bless the local community.
“Our children participate in a variety of activities. Volunteers, like these Regent University students, are a big part of making these experiences successful—and fun. We really appreciate this great community support,” said Shirley Justice, St. Mary’s community liaison, who worked with the Regent students.
Campus Ministries is gearing up for more Friday service projects next semester.
“I personally believe that it is extremely important for students to volunteer in our service projects,” said Bishop. “Not only does it provide them with great experiences and opportunities to practice their skills, but it really grows them spiritually and gives them a great perspective on organizations and non-profit work in America today.”
The next Good Friday will be Jan. 16 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Campus Ministries will visit United in Him After-school program to play with the kids.