By: Cameron Wallace
On Nov. 22, the Saint Leo University community took part in its annual tradition of the blessing of the manger and the lighting of the Christmas tree.
The tradition, which has been going on at Saint Leo for a number of years, is often well anticipated and attended by the students, members of staff, faculty, and administration.
The wreath laying ceremony having been conducted at the Lion Statue emboldens Saint Leo’s commitment to the Armed Forces. Credit: Cameron Wallace
The ceremony began with the blessing of the manger within which depicts the nativity scene of Jesus Christ. This was led by Saint Leo University’s Chaplain, Father Kyle Smith. He blessed the manger and then continued on in the ceremony by blessing the Christmas tree. After this, the tree was illuminated with a large number of Christmas tree lights displaying a vast array of beautiful colors.
A number of performances were done by students to assist in bringing the Christmas cheer to Saint Leo University. One of the students who performed was Olivia Callahan who was assisted by Associate Professor for Music and Music Ministry, Dr. Cynthia Selph, on the keyboard.
After the ceremony, a group of singers from Saint Leo University’s Campus Ministry performed a number of carols in which attendants who wished to stay behind could sing along or simply listen and enjoy their melodic voices.
Credit: Cameron Wallace
Unlike previous years where a Christmas tree is ordinarily purchased and placed in the center of the walkway leading to the clock tower from the lion statue, an evergreen tree growing near the clock tower was decorated and used as the campus’ Christmas tree.
Although the tree is not what some members of the university may be used to, the Christmas tree was still lauded and appreciated by students who were constantly seen taking photographs in front of and around the Christmas tree.
Credit: Cameron Wallace
A variety of organizations were also seen taking photographs near the tree for their various organization’s Christmas cards. When asked, marketing student Jessica Vieux, who is also member of the Beta Upsilon chapter of Theta Phi Alpha and the Vice President of graphic design for the American Marketing Association on campus, said that she loves the Christmas tree and thinks it is very beautiful and well decorated.
Despite the recent drop in the temperature, the tree lighting ceremony was well attended by the Saint Leo Community.
After the event, hot chocolate and a number of other drinks were provided by dining services, along with other desserts for those who attended the event, allowing the group to commune a little longer.
