The Allentown Central Catholic High School community gathered together several times this month for fun and fellowship.

The Junior Class Student Council organized a gingerbread house decorating competition Dec. 8 and the Sophomore Class Student Council hosted a Christmas Extravaganza Dec. 9, which featured Christmas-themed games and activities.

ACCHS held its annual Forty Hours Retreat Dec. 16, which included Mass, speakers, Adoration and Benediction. Parents and alumni were invited to join the student body during this cherished Central tradition.

The Scholastic Scrimmage team won the EPC Championship at Freedom High School Dec. 5. The Vikings defeated Stroudsburg High School 145-65 in the semifinal match and then won 190-110 against Liberty High School to become this season’s EPC Champions.

The Vikings were the EPC Western Division champions after the regular season, which paved their way to the championship. The team competed in its first PBS39 match Dec. 9 and defeated Salisbury High School. The team moved on to face Saucon Valley High School at the PBS39 studio Dec. 14, defeating Saucon in an exciting match. The Vikings competed in the semifinal match Dec. 19.

A casual spirit day is scheduled Jan. 13, 2023, for any student who donated a toy to the NHS Toy Drive.

If you need to stock up on spirit wear, please visit the new web store to purchase it. Orders must be entered by Dec. 31 and purchases will be delivered around Jan. 15, 2023. If interested, find the link in the emailed Viking weekly newsletter to place your order.

Central is beginning a parent ambassador program, in which current parents may volunteer at partner schools and parishes, telling prospective families about the Central experience and what the school has to offer.

The admissions office will conduct an information session to explain the program and will give guidance and materials for any events parent ambassadors attend. Register by completing the Parent Ambassador Sign Up Form in the Viking newsletter.

The St. Mike’s CYO program needs student volunteers to participate in their Gym Handler program. Gym Handlers are in charge of preparing and breaking down the Hanlon Center and/or St. Joseph’s Limeport gyms for basketball games. Volunteers will also operate the scoreboard. No experience is necessary, but students should be responsible and reliable. Students may select sessions on Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays. If interested, contact Colleen Fitzpatrick at Cmfitzpat@yahoo.com or text/call at 484-633-6772.

Viking Lacrosse will host a preseason gathering 2-5 p.m. Jan. 14, 2023, at Volpe’s sports bar, Emmaus. The fee is $20 per person or $30 per couple, but all lacrosse players are admitted free. Alumni are welcome to attend this event. The fee can be paid at the door through cash, check or Venmo. Contact acchsboyslacrosse@gmail.com with any questions.

Christmas break is Dec. 23 through Jan. 2, 2023, with students returning to classes Jan. 3, 2023.

Merry Christmas to the entire Central family!