Mary on the Move: An Advent Tradition

Courtesy of Tessie Griesbach, Second Grade Teacher, St. Aloysius School, Tulare

The second graders at St. Aloysius School are experiencing a unique and heartwarming Advent tradition this year, thanks to a creative twist on the classic Elf on the Shelf. Their classroom is visited daily by Mary on the Move, a plush Blessed Mother who travels to Bethlehem, one day at a time.

Each day during Advent, Mary appears in a new location within the second grade classroom, carrying a special bag filled with acts of kindness. These acts, ranging from simple gestures like complimenting another student to more involved tasks like writing a thank you note to a school helper, are inspired by Mary's journey. Then, there is a reflection time to discuss and write about their daily actions. By incorporating Mary on the Move into their Advent celebrations, these second graders are not only learning about the Christmas story but also experiencing the joy of giving and the power of kindness.

As the days of Advent wind down, the anticipation grows. On the last day of school before Christmas vacation, Mary on the Move will make her final appearance, this time at the classroom Nativity scene, cradling the baby Jesus in her arms. This moment symbolizes the culmination of their Advent journey and the true meaning of Christmas, as Jesus Christ is born!