Santa and Mrs. Claus welcome a big crowd to Nazareth Motherhouse

It was standing room only for a while as families packed the Nazareth Motherhouse auditorium for the annual Christmas Open House on Dec. 10. Beautiful weather and the return of last year’s popular Santa and Mrs. Claus — who on other days are known as Dell Lee and Annette Boswell of Leon, Iowa — led to some long lines through the auditorium and snaking out into the lobby.

Luckily, many Sisters of St. Joseph of Concordia were on hand to serve ice-cold milk and punch and a selection of Christmas cookies to the crowds waiting to meet Santa.

Others took advantage of holiday sale prices and visited the Nazareth Motherhouse gift shop, or took a tour through the historic home decorated for Christmas.

“I was extremely pleased with the turnout. Everyone seemed to have a great time,” said Ambria Gilliland, assistant director of development. “The sisters truly enjoy seeing the happiness in all the children. It’s exciting for everyone!”

 This year’s event also offered a drawing for a free door prize which was won by Luciana Thrash of Concordia.