SJS Shines at Szopka Competition

This weekend, students that participated in the Polish Nativity Castle (“Szopka”) Club attended the 38th annual Szopka competition at the Polish Cultural Club in Hartford.  Saint James School students, with much guidance from middle school teacher Ms. Carol Oleasz, took 1st – 3rd place and honorable mention in this year’s competition.  The winners were are follows:

1st place: Maya Fisher & Jameson Fisher

2nd place (tie):  Molly Melia & Clara Covill;  Fabrizia S.

3rd Place: Ryan Chacaga, Drew Burnham, & David LaMonica

Honorable Mention:  Stefaniya Barbieri, Madeline Dube, & Annabelle K.

 

The Szopka Krakowska, or “nativity scene”, is a Christmas tradition originating from Krakow, Poland and dating back to the 19th century.  Though commonly called “Christmas Cribs” in English, they look more like castles or cathedrals and depict the Nativity of Jesus.  Saint James School has been involved with this cultural tradition for many years and members of the Polish Cultural Club look forward to seeing our students’ submissions each year.