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The cold night air enveloped the crowd as it gathered around the stately pine tree. People attempted to keep their candles lit, cupping their hands around the struggling flame, as they waited for the countdown to commence. The moment arrived. Students, children, community members, and faculty members all counted in unison. At zero, the tree lit up, bathing the crowd in its seemingly warming glow and proclaiming the celebration of the season.
The spirit of the season came alive Sunday night when University of the Pacific held its annual Festival of Lights.
“It’s a wonderful time at Pacific,” University President Donald DeRosa said, opening the multi-faith service that preceded the lighting. “We begin, I think, with this festive occasion which reminds us of all the things we hold dear.”
 Morris Chapel echoed with the angelic vocals of the Pacific singers and the noises of toddlers. Representatives from each faith addressed the audience, explaining what their respective events or holidays meant.
Student Nicholas Grainger, who describes himself as a progressive Christian, spoke on the Christmas holiday.
“No matter what the religious tradition, hope seems to underlie each message,” Grainger said. “And hope is what this season is about.”
Josh Olstein, a Pacific student, spoke briefly on what the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur signifies to him.
“This day is somber and reflective,” said Olstein. “It’s about becoming a better person.”
Asra Azam explained the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and what it means to her. She used personal testimony to describe her experience. Ankit Pachal covered the Hindu holiday of Diwali. Diwali celebrates the vistory of good over evil. Each day of the holiday has a different meaning. Kwanzaa was also represented by Shellynne Allen. Kwanzaa’s seven day run stresses family, community, and culture. Its roots came from Africa.
The choir performed several times interspersed through the service. Some of their works were rehashed from the Christmas at the Cathedral event that happened December 1 at the Cathedral of the Anunciation.
In closing the ceremony, Joy Preisser spoke a few minutes on the Pagan holiday of Solstice or Yule. During the winter solstice, where the night is at its longest, Preisser said the people who celebrate have a large feast while enjoying the company of others.
The style in which the service ended was ceremonial and symbolic. Preisser said she loved the dimming of the lights, alluding to the world going into darkness and coming out in the light.
As she spoke, the lights in the chapel were darkened one by one. Candles from the speakers were lit and they scattered around the congregation lighting candles in the audience. The audience was led in a peace song as all in attendance began to walk outside, gathering at the holiday tree at the foot of Burns Tower.
A reception was held immediately afterwards in the Grace Covell Dining Hall which had karaoke, cookies, cocoa, and holiday cheer.
“I appreciated learning more about others’ perspectives on various winter season holidays,” said Becky Taylor, a senior at Pacific, “especially for the way it provides an opportunity for further conversations after the service.”
This is the first year Vice President of Student Life Elizabeth Griego had the chance to attend this event.
“The focus that led us to learn about and appreciate other faiths, and how different religions celebrate values that we all share, is a good model for us for what should be practiced in the world at large today,” Griego said. “Pacific is such an openhearted and sharing community.”
“I had a great time meeting new people and getting into the Christmas cheer mood,” said Nicole Harris, a sophomore.
As the reception was winding down, Nicholas Grainger offered these fitting words for the season.
“Like the lone rose poking through the snow in December, like the rose, as long as there is life, there is hope,” he said as he watched the crowd shrink and the food disappear. “There is life! There is hope!”
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