By Mary Stadnyk | Associate Editor

The Scripture verse, “There was no room in the Inn” (Lk. 2:7), tugged at the heartstrings of the parishioners of St. James Parish, Red Bank, so much that they were motivated to do something to help – like build a house for Jesus all their own.

Under the guidance of Father Ariel Robles, parish adjunct priest, the parishioners participated in a project during Advent in which they created a house – a stable – to shelter the newborn Savior and his beloved parents, Mary and Joseph. The stable was to be part of the Nativity scene in St. James Church.

Before acquiring materials such as wood, nails and hammers and getting to work on the house, Father Robles, instead, began the construction process by asking the community to reflect on good works and acts of kindness or charity and how they may be carried out. The acts could be done within a person’s home, for other friends and relatives, or out in the community, such as in their neighborhood, work place or parish. Once parishioners decided on their chosen deed, they were asked to write it on wooden sticks that were the size of tongue depressors then place the sticks in a basket set up in the church.

“We need to finish the house ASAP,” stated Father Robles in a pitch he gave to mobilize the community about the project. Noting that the collection of sticks was the primary material used to build the house, Father Robles said, “The more good works we do, the more sticks we can give and the bigger the house we can make for Jesus.”  He noted that in addition to good works, the parishioners were invited to submit prayers or petitions and wishes.

Among the good deeds that adult parishioners indicated on their wooden sticks included: “I helped a friend whose mom died;” “To forgive;” “Patience;” “I will be there for my ailing in-law” and “Gossip less, pray more.” Younger children promised, “Listening to my Mommy and Daddy;” “I will share my toys,”  and “I will be a better person before Christmas.”

Each week during Advent, Father Robles gave an update on the construction of the house, and was pleased to note that by Christmas, the 2,000 wooden sticks that were collected would enable the parishioners to build a decent-sized house of which they could be very proud.

“This to us is the most beautiful house for Jesus, because it was built by the people, not only from sticks, but out of their faith and love,” stated Father Robles. “You can also build a house for the Lord. Rebuild your family and you’ll have a perfect home for Jesus. Merry Christmas!”