Christmas tree lighting ceremonies set for both campuses

Christmas is coming to the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University!

This year, the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremonies will take place at 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 27, in the Great Hall at SJU, and at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28, on the mall between Ardolf Science Center and Clemens Library at CSB.

Both events are free and open to the public.

SJU’s celebration Nov. 27 will feature Father Bob Koopmann, OSB, who will play Christmas carols on his piano. Abbot John Klassen, OSB, of Saint John’s Abbey will say a blessing, and hot chocolate and Christmas cookies will be provided.

Saint John’s has used a 30-foot artificial Christmas tree since 2015. The tree has 18,650 LED Christmas lights and their glow illuminates the Great Hall.

For CSB’s ceremony, the bells atop Clemens Library will start ringing at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 28 to signify the public gathering around the tree.

Candles will be provided, with the theme “Sic Luceat Lux Vestra” (So Let Your Light Shine). Christmas carols – led by the CSB Women’s Choir - will be sung to help observe the tree lighting ceremony. CSB President Mary Dana Hinton will lead the countdown to the lighting of the tree, which will be adorned with nearly 3,200 lights.

A reception will follow the ceremony at 6:15 p.m. in Clemens Library with Mason Jar Hot Cocoa Make ’N Take.