There are families and children in need in our community this holiday season and we are blessed to have people like Brigette Chirpich and everyone at Catholic Charities to do God's work.  In fact, there are dozens of organizations that step up year round and you may already be affiliated with one or have your own family tradition to help others.

  If you do, we still think you'll be enlightened hearing about Christmas Shining Star and what the program does for kids in Kansas City and St. Joseph.  If you don't, we'd love for you to join the effort.  And if you'll indulge me just a little, this episode is quite personal and emotional.