“A school’s Christmas celebration should be nonstop” according to Principal Michael Scanlan. To deliver on that request, Bishop Connolly High School provided a dozen special Christmas events during this holiday season. From Advent prayer services to a Christmas cookie bakeoff –and everything in between- the Bishop Connolly family celebrated Christmas in Our Hearts, a nonstop array of events beginning with the first week of Advent.

“It’s a thrill to be around school during the Christmas season” says Junior Jasiel Correia. Students participate in a number of events. First and foremost was the Giving Tree sponsored by National Honor Society members to benefit Catholic Social Services. Students’ largess continued with Keeping Kids Warm, a special project of the school’s kitchen staff which distributes children’s hats, mittens and scarves to the needy. Students who participate are treated to hot chocolate and morning goodies. “We’re happy to create some awareness of the plight of the needy with this program” says Food Service supervisor Cheryl Medeiros, “and the payoff is helping those who need it most.”

For the holidays, Bishop Connolly held several contests that brightened the school’s hall and doorways. Homeroom doors proclaimed the spirit of the season with innovative and unique displays. From manger scenes to Peanuts depictions, the doors were a festive treat. An additional feature is the tree trimming contest that pits each grade against the other to see who can come up with the most original -and in some cases most unexpected- decorations for their class tree. This year, we were treated to a “Charlie Brown Christmas” tree and a resplendent “Christmas in Hawaii” tree among other festive entries.

And for those with culinary abilities or just trying their luck with a cookie recipe, Christmas Cookie Sharing is always a hit. Prizes are awarded for the yummiest home baked cookies. Winning in the student division was freshman Ryan Frost. Faculty honors were taken by school President Bob Morissette.

In addition, Connolly students spread good cheer with Christmas Around the World, an event that celebrates Christmas in other cultures through music, prayer and poster displays. Also spreading musical cheer was the Bishop Connolly Christmas Chorale under the direction of Mr. Chris J. Silva. The chorale traditionally visits area nursing homes and civic groups including the Cardinal Medeiros Retirement Home for Priests.

The Christmas in Our Hearts finale celebrated on December 21st was a time for reflection and prayer as well as a time for students and faculty to demonstrate their talents at the holiday talent show. Principal Scanlan notes, “I’m always amazed at the amount of talent that volunteers for the show.” Both students and faculty participated again this year in what was a rollicking good time.

All in all, the Christmas spirit prevailed at Bishop Connolly and continues to grow stronger each year. As always, Parents and friends were in attendance at several of the events helping to spread holiday good cheer.