Reba Phelps texted a few of her neighbors in the St. Claire Avenue and Whitfield Drive area to see if their children would be interested in caroling one night before Christmas.

“My only instruction for their behavior was to tip toe and whisper when we traveled through yards so they would be totally surprised, like cat burglars,” said Phelps. “We knew we wanted to make this an annual event.”

The night of caroling came and the group gathered at Phelps’ house. The kids were dressed in their warmest red and green attire. Some had on Christmas light necklaces and elf hats. They rang the first door bell at Ellen Tucker’s home and sang “Silent Night.”

“The kids sounded like absolute angels,” said Phelps. “There is no way to describe the unity and melody that came out of their mouths. It was beautiful. Once the kids sang, all of the parents were teary eyed and shocked at how good they sounded. Ellen gave the kids ring pops so they were thrilled and excited to visit the next spot.”

The kids were well received at each and every house. Some residents cried while they sang, some sang along with the carolers and some invited them in.

After it was said and done they decided to name the group “Cat Burglar Carolers.”

The Cat Burglar Carolers will return next year.

Kids who participated included Sydney Hicks; Kathryn Phelps; Gabriel, Teegan and Kyson McKnight, Cameron, Colby, Rannon and Allyson Jett; Emma Bain and Sophia Pleasant.