With Christmas break right around the corner, Allentown Central Catholic High School has been busy celebrating the holiday season while continuing to serve both our school and community.

On Nov. 20, the Central City Project hosted the last pickleball session with Raub Middle School for the fall. After completing the five-week after school CCP pickleball program, students at the middle school were awarded certificates and Wawa gift cards.

On Nov. 21, ACCHS participated in watching Pope Leo’s “Digital Visit” with U.S. youth through Zoom. He answered many questions about the church, technology and how the youth can use their voices to make a difference in the world.

On Nov. 24, members of the Vikings for Gold Club crafted Thanksgiving bags for the children at Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health and Christmas baskets for the kids at Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley.

The Viking Lacrosse Alumni game held Nov. 28 was also a huge success. Thank you to all of our Viking alumni who came out to reconnect with old teammates and support the program.

Viking wrestling is currently holding its Island Expressions soup and hoagie fundraiser. Orders can be placed through an ACCHS student or by using the form found in the weekly newsletter. Orders are due by Dec. 29.

Members of our ACCHS Internat Club took a field trip to see “The Nutcracker” at Miller Symphony Hall in Allentown. The Internat Club links ACCHS to the beauty and wonder of foreign cultures. Their winter and spring trips are the highlights of this club. International Language Week immerses ACCHS students in global traditions and cultures.

Some ACCHS performing arts members traveled to New York City Dec. 7 to participate in a master class with a cast member from “Hadestown.” Students also experienced a Broadway show and ended the night with dinner and entertainment at Gayle’s Broadway Rose.

ACCHS was also excited to welcome visitors from partner schools to our annual “Afternoon in Santa’s Workshop.” Guests were able to meet Santa Claus and participate in several holiday craft stations.

Some of our ACCHS football players volunteered as Christmas guest readers at St. Michael the Archangel School. They were able to read to and complete a Christmas craft with the kindergarten and third grade classes.

On Dec. 12, the junior student council hosted its annual gingerbread competition. Students had a blast building their creations and getting into the holiday spirit.