With the first fall of snow on the Merle-Smith campus, winter has come to Moravian Academy. Though this may be students’ least favorite season on campus (mine included), at least they are well-stocked: the lounges are filled with black puffer jackets, and students have been enjoying the hot tea and coffee in the dining room.

Fall sports finally came to an end in mid-November. The girls’ soccer team made a valiant effort in the postseason, winning 2 to 1 against Holy Redeemer in the first round and 2 to 0 against Lancaster Mennonite in the quarterfinals before losing to Dock Mennonite in the PIAA state semifinals. Even non-sports fans became avid members of the soccer student section, with great turnouts to both home and away games. Mara Dubacher (11), known for being a particularly passionate supporter during the season, says: “Going to these games was so much fun, especially because they won so many. It was awesome to watch such a great team!” We are so proud of the team for all of their achievements.

Students have also been enjoying social events on campus, including a fall spirit week when students dressed up for themes like Culture Day and Comfy Day. At the end of the week, seniors had lots of fun with their first-grade buddies at the Halloween Parade. They dressed to match their young friends, parading through God’s Acre. Despite MA’s lack of a football team, the Homecoming dance Nov. 20 was also a great time. Many freshmen enjoyed their first high school dance, while seniors danced to Pitbull, and sophomores sang along with Taylor Swift.

It has been a hectic few months for the performing arts at MA. After a grueling tech week, students performed their acts at the annual Coffeehouse variety show. Some personal favorites included a musical duet between SpongeBob (senior Colin Moore) and Patrick (sophomore Danial Siddiqui); a Jumanji SNL skit from the Advanced Acting class; and the closing act, Bollywood Dance. Then, Vespers, a traditional holiday service, was lovingly conducted in Central Moravian Church Dec. 12. Chorale member Lauren Sheckler (12) remarked after performing: “Though it took a lot of work to prepare it, I’m really sad that this is my seventh and last Vespers. This service has a lot of meaning to me.” The congregation sang a variety of hymns and the handbell choir rang in the new year, marking the official start of the holiday season for many. However, performance-loving students have moved straight onto the winter musical. Neal Gummadi (12), who has participated in the musical for all four years of his high school career, is filled with anticipation. “I am so happy to be a part of ‘The Drowsy Chaperone.’ While it is sad that it is my last year doing the musical, I am looking forward to making this season the best it’s ever been!”

An exciting month all around for Moravian Academy. As we settle into the holidays, shared spaces are filled with Christmas lights, menorahs and snowflakes. Students are eagerly looking forward to the break and dreading the midterms coming right after. As always, Go Lions.