Candlelighting

By Knox Vitrano ’24

Article from the Winter Carnival 2024 Hearth Issue

Every night before departing for Winter Break, the students celebrate the term with a concert, a family-style meal, and one of Eaglebrook’s longest-standing traditions: Candlelighting. Gathered in the assembly area and dressed in coat and tie, the students kicked off the evening with the Winter Concert performed by the String Orchestra, Band, Chorus, Ad Libs, and multiple pianists. The music filled the air with the holiday spirit while everyone was filled with excitement for the festivities that followed.

After the concert, the students took a short stroll up to the Dining Hall, where they were greeted with festive decorations and wonderful aromas coming from the kitchen. The students took their spots at their tables and heard the familiar ring of a bell followed by a prayer from Mrs. Blain. The rumbling that followed was the sound of excited students pulling out their chairs to dig into assorted flavors of sorbet, which was intended to act as a “palate cleanser” for the main event - a meal that resembled a Thanksgiving feast. Mr. Chase commenced the meal by carrying out the first turkey, which was still smoking from the grill. Faculty members followed his lead, bringing out the rest of the smoking birds. The procession was accompanied by a roaring cheer and smiling faces. Everyone enjoyed great food and conversations.

Following the meal, the Candlelighting Ceremony took place. First, the Third Formers sang a holiday song in Spanish. Then, the World Language Carolers continued the holiday cheer with songs in Mandarin, French, Spanish, and Latin. Afterwards, the faculty members sang in English. Following the caroling, the lights were dimmed, and the Head of School, Mr. Chase, gave a speech on the history of Candlelighting at Eaglebrook, reciting, “As one light lights another, nor grows less, so nobleness enkindles nobleness.” A few students then played “Adeste Fideles” while Mr. Chase lit up the first candle. One by one, the Sixth Formers walked up to Mr. Chase to light their candles from his before sharing their flames with the underformers. Warmth gradually filled the room from back to front as the candles were lit and carried away. Finally, the band stopped playing, and the event came to a peaceful and joyous end. With candles still lit, students gathered to take photos and talk with their friends one last time before departing for a well-deserved Winter Break.