TOCCOA--In honor of National Migration Week, the youth group at St. Mary's Church sponsored an International Night, featuring festive foods, storytelling and music on Jan. 24.

Celebrating the theme, "Diversity--Our Common Bond," the social hall of St. Mary's was decorated with flags and mementos from around the world donated by parishioners.

Many participants made foods typical of their countries of origin. Father Dan Toof, pastor, and other church members blessed the meal in English, Spanish, French and Vietnamese.

Joan Carther, one of the event's organizers, said that the goal of the evening was to learn about other cultures.

"We didn't want to plan every detail of the night," she said. "We just created the time and the opportunity for people to gather and learn more about each other's heritage."

After dinner the International Night attendees participated in sing-a-longs and ethnic dances and listened to the stories of former refugees.

Laura Burke, volunteer youth minister, said that there was parish-wide excitement about the night.

"People were so enthused when told what the youth group wanted to do," she said. "We wanted to emphasize what happens when people choose to look past their differences. I think that message struck a chord. Many people showed up to contribute without even being asked."

Father Toof expressed his gratitude for the work of the youth group.

"I am very pleased with our youth group's effort tonight," he said. "This evening was educational, it was spiritual and it was social. What a winning combination."