Added on December 17, 2018 Sara Swanson

Homeschool students spread holiday cheer to seniors

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by Jennifer Blackwell

The youth of Manchester are once again spreading holiday cheer. This time a small group of local homeschooling students are caroling out in the greater community. One local homeschool mom, Laura Wohlgemuth, gathered five local families to form a Holiday Homeschool Choir.

When asked why she decided to pull the group together Laura responded, “God has really given me a heart for the seniors and it really blesses me to see the joy the children bring to them. Manchester is full of giving and generous hearts and I know there are many in the Manchester community that share this compassion. Not only can we share the joy of song with the seniors, but also share this blessing with other families who would love to participate spreading happiness. It’s a win win all around. Give joy to get joy.”

The choir includes thirteen children who sing and play brightly colored handbells. Children in the group range in age from 3 to 16 years old. The homeschool choir practiced together for three weeks in November, and created handmade cards to pass out to audiences at their performances.

The Holiday Homeschool Choir made its musical debut at the senior citizen’s meal at Emanuel, UCC on December 4th. Our local homeschoolers sang a long list of seasonal favorites including; “Away in a Manger,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “Joy to the World,” and ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” A rousing rendition of “Joy to the World” played on handbells was a highlight of the show.

Following their debut performance, the Holiday Homeschool Choir traveled to Evangelical Home down the road in Saline, on December 11th. The choir arrived in festive attire and entertained the residents before dinner. Many of the residents at Evangelical Home sang along with the children. After the performance one happy resident remarked about the carols, “They are all my favorite!”

If you are interested in becoming involved with this small homeschooling group, you are welcome to join the Manchester Michigan Homeschool Hub group on Facebook. The Manchester Michigan Homeschool Hub is a casual group of Manchester area homeschoolers. For specific information on joining the Holiday Homeschool Choir please contact Laura Wohlgemuth (586) 703-4549.