St. Christopher's
Nashua NH
Director: Jeanne Polcari

This is Jeanne's second year as the handbell director at St. Chris'. Her first handbell experience was at F/C 07' learning how to ring. She has since started two handbell choirs and is on her way to a third.

The Beginnings of St. Christopher Special Friends Handbell Choir

On the internet one day, I came across a video of an adult special needs handbell group at a residential school in New York. What piqued my interest was how visually committed the group was to the music they were creating and how beautiful they sounded. It not only made an impact but motivated my curiosity enough to further explore the possibility of having a similar group.

Personally, Beth, my niece of 18 years who has Down Syndrome, had touched me in many ways over the years with her loving personality and embracing enthusiasm for life. I can still remember the day at the playground as she stood on top of the jungle gym and coaxed me to join her with “come on Auntie, you can do it…”

I was also fortunate in that, 40 years ago, when Special Needs programs were virtually non-existent, Barbara and Jack Keegan, parents of Elizabeth who has Down Syndrome, had the vision to gather special needs children in the community to offer religious education at St. Christopher Parish. The group of Special Friends grew into a much needed support and social opportunity that would not only set a precedent with its high standards of commitment, but would, with education, begin to address and overcome barriers that this unique population dealt with on a daily basis. Because of the Keegan’s hard work and dedication, the group is intact today with many endearing friendships and joyous memories of the years together.

Meetings with Barbara produced a list of possible new ringers. The criteria included probable consistent transportation to rehearsal as well as apparent level of functioning for success. Providers (caretakers) and family members were contacted to enlist interest and support for the project. All were invited to a fantastic concert by The Merrimack Valley Ringers which got the word started around town that something exciting was about to happen!
Next issue: Our first rehearsal…