Love in a Box

 The Girl Scouts of America are tiring me out with all of their holiday do-gooding.  Yesterday, We went to The American Cathedral in Paris and helped with their Love in a Box program.  They distribute 3000 boxes and backpacks full of presents and necessities for needy children.  Pierre was in charge of candy distribution and everyone wanted to help him.  

Classified as a historic monument, the Cathedral's building was consecrated on Thanksgiving Day in 1886, but its roots go back to the 1830's, when American Episcopalians began gathering for formal worship. 

 Individuals bring in boxes that are already filled, following the church's guidelines, but the church also puts together thousands of boxes with donations.  These Girls Scouts worked to put all of the goods into the boxes.  Lillian and Sylvia both chose to fill a box for a girl their age.

 After a quick lunch, we headed across the river to  American Church in Paris.

The ACP is the first American church established outside of the United States. Begun in 1814, its official charter and first sanctuary were established in 1857. We have been located on the quai d’Orsay since 1931.

The AAWE, which is an organization for American woman living long-term in France, was having a Christmas party.  Our girls tried to elicit toiletry donations for their toiletry drive and enjoyed the party.

Wednesday, we are selling cupcakes so that the girls can buy more toiletries for the homeless.  Pierre has been a champion and his co-workers have been donating tons.  The cupcake sale will be at his office buidling.  After Wednesday, I will be ready for a little Christmas vacation from the wonderful Girl Scouts of America.  Lillian's troop of six girls includes girls who are American, French, Canadian, Australian, and British.