Got a little one who’s been really nice? Is your child excited about Christmas yet? Whether your answer is yes or no, we invite you and your family to the St. Mary Catholic Youth Organization Annual Pancake Breakfast with Santa.

Every child will have the opportunity to make lasting memories and holiday traditions by sharing some up close and personal time with ol’ Saint Nick himself.

St. Mary’s CYO will be up early working with Santa and his elves to get everything ready for the big event so it will be extra special.

Following the yummy breakfast, you’ll also have the opportunity to pose for photos and present a holiday wish list to the big guy in the red suit. Bring your own camera to capture the moment.

The breakfast is a fundraiser for the St. Mary CYO. Our youth participate in community services and activities throughout the year, such as working at the Stewpot, delivering poinsettias to the homebound, collecting donations for the Natchez Adams County Humane Society and the Stewpot, and so much more.

Part of the proceeds from this breakfast will help send the youth on their next Catholic Heart Work Camp mission trip next summer, which will be in Nashville, Tennessee.

There are 40 teens and 11 adults attending camp this year, and we are so grateful for the fabulous support of our parish and our community, for without you all the many things we do with our youth at St. Mary would not be possible.
This youth trip provides service opportunities to restore homes and hearts, feed the hungry, lift the spirits of children, bring joy to the elderly and disabled, and offer assistance while partnering with social agencies. Our youth grow so much on these trips — helping them become better leaders of tomorrow.

So plan on starting your day the merry way with Santa and his elves, and help our youth at the same time on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. at the O’Connor Family Life Center, 613 Main Street, Natchez.

Tickets are $10/each or for families $10 for first 2 tickets and $5 for each additional ticket. Breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, milk and juice. Buying tickets in advance is greatly encouraged as there is limited seating. Call Carrie Lambert at 601-445-5616 or email stmaryyouth@cableone.net for further information.

CARRIE LAMBERT is the youth director for St. Mary.