This is the time of year many families are preparing for Advent and Christmas. There are obvious signs noting the seasons are coming – snowflakes, advent wreaths, nativity displays and angels.
Angels are emblematic of these seasons. The angel came to Joseph and told him to take Mary as his wife; the angel came to Mary to tell her she was with child; and the angel came to the shepherds to tell them of the birth of our savior. In this sense, the angels were messengers of God.
But there are other “angels” here on earth, which are given charge over us. There’s the neighbor who does yardwork or small chores for a friend who may be sick or physically disabled; the friends who bring food and comfort to someone who is grieving; or guardian angels such as social workers and foster parents, whose passion is to take care of the misfortunate children and families. The children at Home On The Range may have broken wings, but angels who want to pick them up, take care of them and keep them safe surround them.
The Home On The Range staff takes a personal interest in the children and form long-lasting and trusting relationships. The dorm staff offers guidance and structure to keep everyone safe. There are social workers who work tirelessly and for many hours by talking to the boys and girls to help them work through their troubles, problems and emotional turmoil. The pastoral assistant says daily prayers for the boys and girls. She meets with each child and together they search for spiritual guidance to help heal the broken soul and spirit. Home On The Range has special angels from the kitchen and medical department to provide bodily healing.
Home On The Range has seen a multitude of angels. Many individuals and groups volunteer their time to minister to the children and share a special message. There are many organizations that make angel trees with the kids’ names on the tree, so that each child receives a Christmas gift. A young lady works all summer and saves her tips to buy personalized Christmas gifts for each child. A volunteer will dress as Santa Claus and hand out presents to the children on Christmas morning. Home On The Range has a group of musically talented staff that leads the children in singing Christmas Carols after a Christmas dinner. The largest groups of angels are the benefactors and friends who send financial gifts. These gifts enable Home On The Range to take care of all the children’s needs and wishes.
During the Advent and Christmas seasons, Home On The Range would like to invite you to join the multitude of angels and help the troubled and disadvantaged boys and girls by saying a prayer, or by sending a financial gift. Please mail your tax-deductible donation to Home On The Range, 16351 I94, Sentinel Butte, North Dakota 58654.
Home On The Range is a residential childcare facility licensed to care for 46 boys and girls, ages 12-18 from cities across North Dakota. The facility is under the Auspices of the Bismarck Catholic Diocese and is located in western North Dakota near the town of Sentinel Butte.