December 16, 2002

TWIN sisters Shelly and Rhonda, 11, wait to open their presents.	D'ANDRA, 9, Reyes, 17, and Paul, 7, light the advent wreath.

Children light the way
___At South Texas Children's Home in Beeville, Christmas is a time of joy, excitement and anticipation. It's a time when children who come to the home with nothing learn what it's like to have something.
___More importantly, it's a time when children learn the meaning of the Christmas story.
___"We try to take every opportunity we can to teach the kids about God's love and his plan for salvation," said Mark Childs, vice president for child care at the Baptist General Convention of Texas agency. "Christmas time is no different."
___Three years ago, Childs began having children light advent wreaths every week leading up to Christmas.
___"We've got kids who come from all different backgrounds," he explained. "Many of them have never heard the Christmas story. Having them light the advent candles helps them to understand what Christmas is really about."
___ Since some of the children are able to go home during the holidays, Christmas comes early at the children's home. Beginning four weeks before December 21, the children take turns lighting the advent wreath, ultimately lighting the final white candle represents the birth of Jesus Christ on December 20.
___Children also receive Christmas gifts provided by groups and individuals.



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