Joyful Beginnings by Lighting the Christmas Tree

Elizabeth Seton School – South (ESS-South) celebrated the yearly Christmas Tree Lighting last November 24, 2022, in front of the Seton Chapel. It was celebrated by the notable figures of ESS-South and selected students to help spread joy and cheer as we commemorate the upcoming birthday of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

The introduction of the program was led by Sister Edna, followed by an opening hymn of “Emmanuel” sung by the Setonian Madrigals. Next was a reading from the book of the Prophet Isaiah and the Responsorial Psalm. After the Gospel of the Lord, the School President, Dr. Roberto T. Borromeo, shared a Christmas message. 

Intercessions by Dr. Febe Marie Suarez, Kapitana Juliet Sapinoso, Mr. Manny Tagbago, Ms. Ligaya Quiambao, Ms. Ann Samson, and Ms. Gloria Medina also came after. 

The prayer was led by the School Principal, Dr. Roland Niño Agoncillo. Followed by the most awaited moment, the countdown, was led by Dr. Borromeo, and the Christmas Tree was illuminated. A performance by the Setonian Madrigals of the songs “Himig ng Pasko” and “Kumukutikutitap” was followed by an energetic performance by the dance club CNRG with the remix of Christmas classics “Santa is Coming to Town”, “All I want for Christmas”, and “Jingle Bell Rock” 

This isn’t the only event celebrating the Christmas season that happened in ESS-South. Following the Christmas Pail event that was done last academic year, the seven Houses shared pails of goods for those in need. Another activity was led by the Supreme Student Council (SSC), the “Secret Santa” letter giving, where students have the ability to send Christmas cards to their schoolmates. These letters were then individually distributed by the SSC during the Students’ Christmas Party. Through these Christmas activities done by the campus we can definitely feel the Christmas spirit.

To quote the Gospel of the Lord, “What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race, the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” With the Christmas Tree decorated and adorned, alongside the sharing of our blessings through the Christmas Pails, and the heart warming act of giving and receiving of letters, this signifies that we welcome Christ among us and may it ensure that we will never lose our way as lights guide us to the perfect light.