by John Sorce
john.sorce@theleaven.org
LEAWOOD — The idea started with a passing thought one night many years ago.
Catherine Fowler Sample was preparing her daughter’s shoes with treats on the eve of St. Nicholas Day and remembers wishing she had something more to celebrate Advent.
“An angel must have put [the idea] into my head because it truly just popped in there,” Sample said.
That’s where the idea for “My Advent Angel” started.
Growing up, St. Nicholas Day was the main tradition in her household. But Sample likened Advent to a flyover state compared to the destination of Christmas morning.
She wanted to change that perception.
“The whole idea is designed to keep Advent as a meaningful and memorable time for families to put the focus back on Jesus and grow in virtue in a fun and faith-filled way,” Sample said.
She, along with her sister Anna-Therese Fowler, created “My Advent Angel,” which was featured this year at Curé of Ars’ Gift Gallery in Leawood Nov. 7-8.
Currently residing in Arizona, Sample is originally from the area.
“We are familiar with the Gift Gallery and thought it would be a great place to share ‘My Advent Angel’ since we have so many friends and connections in Kansas City,” Sample said. “They are wonderful with what they do with their charities, and we are thrilled to be a part of it.”
In addition to the doll itself, “My Advent Angel” also offers a book, virtue cards based on the fruits of the Holy Spirit and a prayer card.
The idea initially came prior to COVID, but Sample and her sister couldn’t turn it into a reality until last year.
There’s been a lot of support in that time, but they are hoping to see it grow on a larger scale.
“It’s very loving and encouraging to make the season right,” Sample said, “and it’s been humbling to see people’s overwhelming response in the last year with pretty much just word of mouth.
“Now we’re trying to share it on a bigger scale.”
To learn more about “My Advent Angel,” visit the website at: myadventangel.com.
