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It has become customary at Tagaste to gather before the Vigil Mass, December 24, for dinner and exchange of Christmas presents. Community cook Vera Huston prepared a wonderful meal, following the Italian tradition of having seven fish in remembrance of the seven sacraments. The friars enjoyed the fish stew, flounder, and other delicacies from the sea along with a good glass of wine.
After the meal, all got together around the tree where friends had left a large pile of presents which were distributed by Fr. Prior, Ramón Gaitan. There were presents addressed to each friar and other that were distributed "grab bag" style. Everyone got something and there was always a chance to exchange with a neighbor if what you got wasn't your size! There was an additional chance for gifts (prizes) when the community moved on to Bingo—another holiday favorite!
After the Masses on Christmas day the community once again gathered for lunch together before enjoying free time to be with relatives and friends. The occasion very much reflects the family spirit that presides in the community and the fact that all religious have two families—their natural family and their "spiritual" family.
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