CHRISTMAS BASKETS THEN...

The Christmas Basket service project is a longstanding DCHS tradition with components that originate from both of its founding schools. Dating back to the earliest days at St. Joseph Academy (SJA), students were committed to doing what they could to serve others. Even when the Great Depression brought a decline in enrollment, those who were still able to attend continued to focus on helping others. The SJA Social Service Club began bringing clothing, food, toys and religious artifacts to those in need during the holiday season. With leadership from the senior class, the boys from Dowling participated in a similar tradition focused primarily on providing food to those in need at Christmas.

When the new coed school opened on Buffalo Road in 1972, the first Christmas Basket project helped approximately 25 families in need. Tom Diehl ‘73, head of the first project committee, was quoted in the school newspaper about how he hoped the first Christmas at the new Dowling would long be remembered.

“We have tried to set trends for other classes to follow as seniors,” said Diehl. “This project should instill a giving attitude, worthwhile for others to have in them.”

Alumna Audrey (Miller) Masimore ‘72 has fond Christmas Basket memories. She recalls driving in her station wagon accompanied by Sister Fabiola and three or four other students to make a Christmas Basket delivery. The trip took a harrowing turn when they encountered snow and the car spun multiple times on the interstate. The trip ultimately ended with laughter and a safe arrival, something she credits to the fervent prayers coming from Sister Fabiola in the passenger seat. Listen to her Christmas Basket story and other memories on our podcast, Stories from Buffalo Road, streaming now on Spotify and YouTube.

WHAT IS CANDLELIGHTING?

Candlelighting is a unique ceremony carried over from the Academy, marking the beginning of Christmas vacation.

A background of Christmas carols was provided by the Accopiato, who led the entrance procession. The mixed chorus and band performed for the first time in front of an all-school audience, performing sounds of the season. A faculty representative and the presidents of the student council and the classes lit candles. These symbolize virtues characteristic of the Christmas season: Joy, Happiness, Peace, Faith, and Unity.