Christmas is approaching quickly, and Holy Name School has been bursting with activities that strengthen our learning and showcase our talents. This column was prepared by Parker Alexander and Tobey Becquet.
The past week was filled with fantastic performances. Monday night featured the Christmas Piano recital. More than 30 students in third through eighth grades performed a beautiful collection musical selections ranging from classic Christmas carols to classical compositions. What a wonderful opportunity to display their gifts of musical talent.
The Intermediate department did a fantastic job with their production of “The Secret of the Gifts.” This story followed the Wise Men as they carried their gifts to the infant Jesus. On the journey, their gifts transformed into symbols of what we presently offer Jesus daily, our fears, sins and shortcomings. The students left those who watched their play with the message that even if we feel unworthy, Jesus loves us so much that He accepts what we have to offer. What a beautiful Christmas message.
The evening also included the Christmas Band Concert which filled the church hall with the sounds of the Christmas Season. Those who attended heard everything from simple carols by beginner band students to more complex arrangements performed by the intermediate and advanced band members. Selections include medleys of traditional and religious Christmas songs. Those who attended not only heard the traditional brass and woodwind instruments, they also heard drum sets, ukuleles, violins and guitars. Next week we look forward to the Handbell Concert featuring fourth through eighth grade and the dress rehearsal of the Choir Christmas Eve program.
We would like to thank our Home and School Association for sponsored environmental education specialists from Prince Gallitzin State Park who involved the students in hands-on activities that helped them understand the natural world and human impacts on the environment. The range of topics included animal adaptations, biodiversity, water quality and pollution and the water cycle.
Students in the Junior High Department participated in the annual Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Each student created an illustration that best depicts the theme. Teachers from the Primary and Intermediate departments voted on the posters. The winners will be announced this week.
The Junior High students will try new forms of art thanks to a Making Activities Count grant from the McDonald’s Corporation. The grant monies will be used to purchase materials for wire sculpture, mono-printing and acrylic painting. Mr. Jim Roman presented the MAC award to Mrs. Lykens who completed the grant application.
Our final quote is from Martin Luther: “Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world.”
If you would like to learn more about Holy Name School in pictures and videos, please find us on Facebook at The Official Holy Name School or at our website, HOLYNAMESCHOOL.NET.
[Photo: Holy Name School Extended Day Preschool students explored static electricity and magnetism with their seventh grade friends.]
