Friends of the John Paul II Foundation came together for their annual Christmas wafer celebration on Sunday, December 6, 2015, at the Princess Manor Banquet Hall in Greenpoint. The evening began with a prayer led by the Chapter’s chaplain, Fr. Józef Szpilski.
President Mieczysław Pająk welcomed the Foundation’s friends and benefactors, outlining its mission and expressing heartfelt thanks for their continued support of John Paul II’s legacy. As is tradition, guests exchanged warm Christmas and New Year wishes while sharing the opłatek.
The evening also included the swearing-in of the Chapter’s newly elected board, with Bishop Witold Mroziewski officiating the ceremony.
Children from the Polish School at Our Lady of Czestochowa and St. Casimir Parish in Brooklyn gave a heartwarming performance, setting the tone for the Advent season. Group caroling added to the festive, family-like atmosphere.
The highlight for the little ones was the arrival of St. Nicholas, who generously handed out gifts.
He was assisted by an Angel—Klaudia Skoczek of New Jersey, the winner of the second U.S. edition of the Papal Contest.
Adults joined in the fun during the raffle, with the youngest Foundation friends drawing the winning numbers and St. Nicholas and the Angel distributing the prizes.
All proceeds from the raffle were donated to support the Foundation’s efforts in Rome. Families of the young performers were among the lucky winners.
This year’s gathering was rich in Polish tradition and symbolism, helping everyone prepare spiritually and joyfully for the upcoming Christmas season. Wesołych Świąt!