Morningside Christmas traditions spread holiday spirit   By Miriam Pfahler Every family has its traditions during the holiday season, whether it’s the food, the football, or the family feuds. And although our Morningside “family” is busy in the last rush towards finals, even we stop to take part in a few holiday traditions. It is actually surprising to note that Morningside has probably lost a few holiday traditions through the years. Bruce Forbes, professor and chair of religious studies at Morningside, remembers his Christmas celebrations as a student here to be a little different. During his time as a student the semester did not end until after Christmas. This allowed students and student organizations the chance to settle down and enjoy the season without the stress of finals. There were carolers, Christmas parties sponsored by various student organizations, and decorations in every hall. “Now we’re focused on trying to finish up and leave,” says Forbes. Despite these changes, the school still finds ways to celebrate the season. One of the most long-standing Morningside Christmas traditions is the hanging of the greens. Seven Spirit Lake girls brought the tradition to Morningside 60 years ago after witnessing a similar ceremony in the home of Agnes Doolittle. The ceremony incorporates lighting the yule log and hanging the evergreen wreaths in the formal Dimmitt lounge. The lighting of the yule log is representative of everlasting light. The four wreaths represent joy, hope, peace, and love. Evergreens were traditionally hung in homes because it was believed that woodland creatures lived in the branches and would bring good cheer to the home. The wreaths also are symbolic of the crown Christ wore during his crucifixion. The ceremony also incorporates singing and decorating the tree with an ornament from each hall. Santa and his elves make an appearance at the end while everyone enjoys the great spread of food. Another big tradition at Morningside is Christmas at Morningside. This year will mark the fourteenth year since the beginning of the concert. Christmas at Morningside incorporates vocal and instrumental music from on- and off-campus groups. The concert is free and open to students and the Sioux City community as it is Morningside’s gift to the community. And while organized Christmas activities on campus are a fun way to spend an evening, there are smaller traditions that students participate in that, while small, still embody that Christmas spirit. Just peeking into rooms in the dorms one can find lights strung up with duct tape, tiny colorful Christmas trees, and garland adorning the walls. There are also the smaller charities sponsored on campus, such as the Angel Tree and Shoebox Christmas, which are great alternatives for individuals that do celebrate Christmas or for those that do not celebrate Christmas, but still want to contribute to the spirit of the holiday season. (Dec. 3)     News Home