December 01, 2025

students, faculty, and staff gather for the lighting of the law school's Christmas Tree

Dean Payne lighting the law school's Christmas TreeOn November 24, the Catholic Law community gathered in the law school’s atrium for the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a tradition that officially marks the start of the holiday season. The event began with a prayer and blessing of the tree by Reverend Ceslaus Kowalkowski, O.P. Following the blessing, Dean Stephen Payne extended a warm welcome to all in attendance and ceremoniously lit the tree. As the tree was illuminated, attendees enjoyed a festive reception featuring a hot chocolate bar, Christmas cookies, and delightful live music performed by Emily Hutchinson (3L) on clarinet and Mariella Creaghan (2L) on violin, creating a memorable and spirited occasion for students, faculty, and staff.