New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1904-01-03
ONE THOUSAND LITTLE FOLKS HAPPY.
Miss Leary Bestows Christmas Gifts on Them
at italian Mission.

1T IS with hearts OVERLOOKING with gladness and
good wishes that we have assembled here again
this year to thank you. esteemed countess. whom
we regard as most benevolent henefactor and
thoughtful friend In our prayers be assured that
we do not forget you"
These words were read yesterday afternoon in
the basement OF the little italian church on
Bleecker-st-. the Chiesa della Madonna di Pompeii
where Miss Annie Leary presented Christmas gifts
10 over thousand little Italians and formed part
OF prettily decorated address which the reader
Angelina Rappiri. afterward presented 70 Miss
Leary.
The reading Of the address was a reward OF
merit. and in the hope of earning the coveted
honor. Angeline has been such a model Of virtue
for the last few days that her teachers scarcely
recognized her
After the presentation OF the address the children
all arose and sang 'SaIvs Signora" a salute TO
their benefactress. which was especially adapted
for the occasion from "SaIve N1adre." Miss Mary
BOylan. who represents Miss Leary IN her Italian
charities. and is the musical instructor at the mis-
sion. accompanied the little folks on the piano
Before this there was little programme. with a
song OF welcome, some Rotations and a dramatic
performance. in which tiny child named Helen
Bort took the part OF tho Christ Child. Clad in
little red frock. trimmed with tinseI with bare
arms and legs. she lay in cradle OF straw. while
the larger children with little speeches in
Italian. expressing their love and devotion the
"Sanctissimo Bambino'' Then the little Bambino
10 kiss and the children sang "Adeste FideIes.'
Then came the distribution Of the presents Miss
Leary being assisted by Miss Florence V Doane.
the Rev. Father Antonio Demo, pastor OF the
church. and the Rev Mother Philamina. superior
of the New-York community of the Missionary
Sisters OF the Sacred Heart, who have charge OF
the school connected with the Church OF Our Lady
Of PomPeii The chil1ren all received candy and
toys. and. besides this, there materials for
dress for each one with materials for underwear.
thread needles and shtmbeS. These the little girls
will in the sewing school. where they Will
make up their frocks under the direction OF the
Sisters. There was also a gayly decorated Christ
mas tree. but no attempt was made TO put the
presents it,
The girls received their presents first. the
little basement would NOT hold all the children at
once and after that the boys were admitted
This occasion IS annual one at the italian
also gives breakfast for the children. This mis-
being done for the Italians in the city practically
supported by her. The church started in
SUlvan-st. by Italian priests and Miss Leary
suggested the formation of the school, where the
Sisters besides teaching the children many useful
things. prepare them for confirmation.
~ thought could best reach the parents
through the children said Miss Leary 10 Trib-
reporter yesterday. and the results have
proved that right. Italian parents pas
slonateIy devoted to their children and kindness
their little ones is the surest way to their
hearts"