The holiday shopping season triggers panic in many holiday shoppers—long lines, sold-out merchandise, and small crowded stores are enough to blur the true meaning of the season. St. Elisabeth’s booth, located in the Holiday Market at Columbus Circle, just might help inject some much needed inspiration into this season of giving.
“Be grateful for everything you have, good and bad,” said Sister Irina from St. Elisabeth’s convent in Belarus, as she stood outside her small booth in the heart of the market.
Her booth stood out from the rest of the stands, which were filled with food, clothes, and jewelry. Hers did not offer a lavish display of pragmatic, indulgent gifts. Instead, the booth was filled with hand-crafted religious icons, statues, and mural and fresco paintings.
“All of these [goods] were made in our workshops in Belarus,” said Sister Irina in a soft Russian accent.
The proceeds of the sales go to St. Elisabeth’s Convent, located in the Republic of Belarus—a small country between Russia and Poland. The convent was founded in 1999. Its purpose is to “provide spiritual and social help for the sick a
nd the suffering,” as stated in their pamphlet. They do this through various help centers in Belarus; their main one is the National Psychiatric Hospital.
The hospital takes in children and adults suffering from mental and physical illnesses; among them alcoholism, depression, and physical disabilities. A boarding school takes care of children who are orphans or who have been rejected by their parents due to Down’s syndrome, birth traumas, and congenital physical defects.
The convent and its centers operate through donations and workshops. The workshops produce woodwork, furniture, metalwork, candlesticks, and paintings. The goods are made by nuns, patients, children in the convent, and volunteers. All of the goods at the market were shipped straight from the convent in Belarus.
“Not everybody wants these people. They are human beings and there should be someone to take care of them,” said Sister Irina. “We are God’s image. Everything and everyo
ne should have a purpose.”
Many customers stopped and marveled at the beautifully carved candlesticks and effigies. Some of them made their holiday purchases unaware of the impact their money would have.
To contribute, visit the Holiday Market at Columbus Circle, Mon-Fri, 8a.m- 8p.m; Sun, 10a.m-7p.m, through Dec. 23. You can also support the convent by visiting their website at www.obitel-minsk.by and making a donation.