Lighting a tree before Christmas is a Malvern tradition. Every year, the youngest student in the middle school lights the tree. It is probably a lot of students’ favorite Malvern Christmas tradition, and it is certainly Albert’s, who is the person who lit the tree this year.

     On the day of the tree lighting all the students of the middle school were chanting Albert’s name with cookies in their hands. They were all on the edge of their seats, and the tips of their toes as the countdown began. The counting got louder as they got closer to one. Albert got his hand ready as exhilaration and adrenaline rushed through his veins. Five…Four…Three… Two…One. He pressed the  button and the crowd erupted with cheers. 

     Christmas trees originated in ancient Egypt and Rome, but Germans were the ones who started decorating it.The tradition made its way to America in the 1800s, but most people thought it was odd until the 1840s.Evergreen trees were always seen as a symbol of hope in dark times because they can survive through the winter and still stay green. Now, the Christmas tree has become a household tradition.

      Albert describes the event as “exciting and fun,” commenting that “there was no stress, just fun and joy.” Our youngest friar was suited well for this event. The beautiful Christmas tree is now in the middle of the quad for any student to see. Be sure to check it out before break, or if you come to campus for Christmas Eve mass.