Students at St. Bernard Prep School are filling Cullman County with hope and warmth this Christmas season as they sponsor five local children through a schoolwide act of generosity. What began as a simple idea has grown into a touching expression of faith, compassion, and unity, offering a bright reflection of Christ’s love during a year marked by profound loss.

Student Council President Sarah Woods drew inspiration from a tradition close to her heart. Each year, her church hosts an angel tree, and she wanted to bring that same spirit of giving to campus. “We decided as the Student Government Association to assign one child to each class and one child to staff to shop for gifts,” she shared. With the collaboration of the Community Service Club, led by Dr. Craig Mann, students joined hands with Curt’s Closet, a well-loved ministry in Cullman, to sponsor five children in need.

The project carries special significance for St. Bernard this year. The school community continues to grieve many losses this semester, including the heartbreaking loss of junior Sarah Cumbie, whose generosity, joy, and faith touched people across the country.

As gifts and donations filled the collection boxes, students felt a renewed sense of togetherness. “We are thankful for the whole school coming together to make Christmas magic for these families,” Woods said.

In lifting others, the students have also strengthened one another—emotionally, spiritually, and lovingly. Their giving honors the memory of Cumbie in a way that reflects her radiant compassion and the ongoing mission of Curt’s Closet, which continues to bless children throughout Cullman County.

This Christmas, the St. Bernard community is living the Gospel message that light shines brightest when shared and that Christ’s love is often revealed through simple acts of kindness. Even in seasons of grief, hope endures, and at St. Bernard, that hope is shining with the warmth of Christmas.