GWU Celebrates the Season of Christmas
Boiling Springs, N.C. – Gardner-Webb University’s annual Festival of Lights Christmas Celebration was held on Thursday, December 4. The theatre was full as faculty, staff, students, and community members gathered to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
The Handbell Ensemble lead with the opening tune, “The First Noel,” and GWU President, Dr. Frank Bonner welcomed the crowd, “The Festival of Lights is one of Gardner-Webb’s best loved traditions, “ he stated. He went on to thank the community for their support and involvement and admonish the performers for their effort and preparation.
The Gardner-Webb Concert Choir, University Chorale, Handbell Ensemble, and String Quartet filled the room with songs of the season and Dr. Bonner read the Christmas story as recorded in Luke 2:1-20. Student Body President Senior International Business Major Tim Lanning addressed the audience, “Remember the true reason of the season, and give back.” He went on to encourage everyone to study hard for finals and enjoy the holiday.
A time of refreshment followed the service. “It was a beautiful ceremony, it really brought the Christmas spirit to life,” says senior Chelsee Suesz.
“The Festival of Lights 2008 was a spectacular production as always,” states Dr. June Hobbs, chair of the English department. “I think it’s getting better every year, thanks to the superior leadership of Dr. Paul Etter. The variety and difficulty of the musical selections and the creative ways he encourages audience involvement were especially notable. As a member of the handbell ensemble, I learned a great deal from him as we prepared our part of the program. So, thank you, Dr. Etter!”
“I remember hearing a few seniors last night complaining about how this was their last festival of lights,” says Sophomore Music Education and Vocal Performance major, Gena Wiltshire. “It is something the choir looks forward to every year. We all get excited when October rolls around and we get our Christmas music for the first time!”
The Festival of Lights is traditionally held the Thursday following Thanksgiving and always brings in standing room only crowds.
Located in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb University is home to nearly 4,000 students from 39 states and 21 foreign countries. Founded in 1905, Gardner-Webb provides exceptional educational opportunities within a Christian environment.
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