Hundreds of students, faculty and staff and community members gathered at Seton Hall University Tuesday for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting on the University Green.
Part of SHU’s Christmas at The Hall celebration, the event began with a Mass and the Blessing of the Crèche, according to a release from the university. The Seminary Choir, the a cappella group Gentlemen of The Hall and the Seton Hall Gospel Choir all performed. There was hot cocoa, photos with the Seton Hall Pirate mascot and a toy drive and food drive.
The ceremony ended concluded with the lighting of the 60-foot spruce, which is adorned with 42,900 lights.
SHU President Gabriel Esteban announced the second annual 12 Acts of Christmas Kindness campaign, a University-sponsored movement that began last year with nursing student Hillary Sadlon, who for her 22nd birthday decided to perform 22 acts of kindness.
At Christmastime, members of the Seton Hall community sign up to perform 12 acts of kindness during the holidays, as a way to counteract the commercialism of the season and focus on caring for others, giving back, and kindness.
“I am grateful for the generosity of so many, who have pledged with me to participate in 12 Acts of Christmas Kindness, doing so much good for a lot of people who are less fortunate,” said Esteban in the release. “Many have brought food items and unwrapped toys to help those in need. I thank everyone for participating in our Christmas tradition and being a part of something very special again this holiday season.”
Photos by Joy Yagid.
