Embracing the Christmas Spirit at Advent in the Courtyard
A renewed St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) tradition continued on Thursday, December 8, as the community gathered to celebrate the beginning of Advent and the many blessings of the Christmas season.
“Advent in the Courtyard is a beautiful tradition we have at St. Mike’s to celebrate the birth of our Lord,” says Andrew Kiel ’09, Coordinator of Spiritual Life and Student Activities. “It brought me great joy to listen to our talented music ministry, seeing so many smiles on our families’ faces, and of course, Santa Claus making an appearance! Thank you to all who made this event possible.”
Over 300 guests were in attendance for the event that began with a prayer service in the chapel, followed by seasonal refreshments, a tree-lighting ceremony, carolling, and the blessing of the tree and crèche! The Music Department, featuring the Sr. Concert Band and Sr. Jazz Ensemble also performed for our guests throughout the evening.
Check out a selection of photos from the evening and enjoy the feedback provided by several guests in attendance.
“Advent in the courtyard this year was amazing. Seeing the courtyard and Christmas tree light up was a very special moment. Great St. Mike’s Christmas Spirit.”
– Jaeger Watson, Grade 12
“After three years at SMCS, it was a delightful experience to have everyone gather together in-person after only being able to celebrate virtually the last few years. We were also fortunate enough to introduce the cast of this year’s Spring Musical, which was something we were not able to showcase for a while. It was definitely a worth while experience and a great display of Christmas spirit.”
– Leo Kim, Grade 11
“As this being my first year at St. Mike’s, the evening was a great opportunity and something I would not have experienced at any other school. It was a great Christmas celebration where I had the chance to play in the Sr. Jazz Ensemble, Sr. Concert Band, and sing in the Choir. I look forward to playing alongside my peers in future school events.”
– Nathan Smitiuch, Grade 11
“Advent in the Courtyard is a favourite St. Michael’s tradition. A great way to get into the Christmas spirit, with music, tree lighting, sweet treats, and Jimmy’s famous chili. And to lead the Advent Prayer, a surprise appearance by Fr. May!”
– Jacqueline Petrovic, parent
“Hope, joy, and peace filled the air at the return of Advent in the Courtyard. Our community came together by celebrating beautiful music as performed by our students and enjoying sweet delights handcrafted by our parents. The night was topped off with the blessing of the nativity and lighting of the beautiful St. Michael’s Christmas tree.”
– Cynthia Papadakis, parent
“I thought that the St. Michael’s Advent in the Courtyard was incredible. We started off by getting freshly made chilli and sweets made by the Parents’ Association, which were delicious. Outside in the courtyard was my favourite part, everybody gathered around and sang Christmas carols and we watched the lights go up on the Christmas tree. I had a great time and it felt like everybody there was a family.”
– Charlie Campbell, prospective student
“Keeping in tradition with our entire application experience, the Advent in the Courtyard event was a welcoming, peaceful, and meaningful experience for us as a prospective family. We found thoughtfulness abound from the beautiful entrance at the always spotless facility lined with poinsettias and festive lights, to the opening service, the generous reception, and of course the blessing of the crèche and lighting of the tree all accompanied by the magnificent Student Concert Band. In all aspects, we are very grateful to be so warmly welcomed by the Admissions Team, Principal Daly, Father Leung, the parents, student community, and even Santa! Thank you for including us in a wonderful evening to begin the Christmas Season!”
– David Campbell, prospective parent
Related links: