Ancient traditions emerge out of a world without light at a flick of a switch, winters, without the benefit of modern insulation and electric heat. Nights of darkness and cold brought fear and even terror, particularly to those without the means to store up provisions for the winter. The days to come would bring unknown challenges that had to be confronted with courage and conviction. 

 

But into those nights, lights of hope would emerge. The spark of a flint would bring a firepit aflame. Food would grill on an open fire. Family and friends would gather, keeping close to stay warm. Songs would ring out to break the freeze of apathy and malaise.

 

Friends: this night, we have an opportunity to embody this hope in optional donations to Maui United Way. These donations will be the strength of love, the song of peace, and the light of hope for our beloved Maui. Yet our gifts are not monetary alone. Through these luminary bags, to be placed around the reflection pond, we will extend the light that will radiate from this year’s Hall-iday Tree. As this tree was carefully cultivated in Upcountry Maui, so these luminaries will symbolize our continued commitment to nurturing our neighbors and ourselves. 

 

Yes, dark nights have tried to rob us of hope. Yet by the grace of God, and forged by the strength of our community, our passionate integrity will not diminish, our courageous community will not dim. Our empowerment of others will never fade away. 

 

Sung by the Seabury Hall chorus, and friends.

 

Now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for. Friends, Seabury Hall’s community service engagements are rooted in our school and spiritual values and centered in works of justice and compassion. This school year alone, we celebrate that Seabury students have completed over 6,200 hours of community service on Maui and beyond! Therefore, it’s an honor to welcome back Mrs. Madden who will invite two of our community service leaders to light this year’s beautiful tree!