Candles, courts, and collaborations

Snow has swept its way onto Moravian Academy’s acres, crunching beneath the footsteps of our meandering students. But despite the frigid climate, the Lions are kindling connection in the many activities they pursue this time of year.

In the midst of a blustery mid-December night, people flocked to the Central Moravian Church at the foot of Downtown Bethlehem’s Main Street. Though weaving through horse-drawn carriages and Christmas shoppers presents quite the parking challenge, families clustered between the white walls of the sanctuary to enjoy Moravian’s winter Vespers. From the twinkling serenade of the handbell ensembles to the resonant alleluias of the student choir, the night’s repertoire presents worship music in a uniquely Moravian light. And speaking of light, no Vespers performance would be complete without the hundreds of candles passed between the aisles of the church. In the service’s final moments, a soft glow reflects onto the faces of every attendee and performer, fueling the unyielding spirit the performance generates for the season to come.

But Vespers is not the only event students have been attending. Both the boys and girls basketball teams have been enjoying this season with the support of their cheering peers in the bleachers. Though few victories have come to our teams, spirit remains strong as team camaraderie continues to shine.

“We have a lot of potential as a team, and we are improving with every game,” says Xavier Tongg Weiler (’26) of the boys basketball team. “We are heading into the new year with a strong resolve.”

As for our swimmers, strong victories against Salisbury and Schuylkill Haven lit the match for a powerful season to come. Of course, no competition is complete without occasional setbacks, which the Lions approach with vigor.

“I was pleasantly surprised by the winning streak that started off the season,” said swimmer Elena Koprowski (’26), “but even after our first loss, I feel like the team remains strong in spirit and is ready to swim its fastest.”

Though our sports seasons may be spotted with defeats, the Lions’ team morale and energy remain ablaze.

In future news, the backstage corridors of Moravian’s theater are abuzz with haughty British accents, tea dresses and ever-extravagant cloche caps. The winter musical, “Me and My Girl,” is soon to come. Following a tale of love, gentlemanliness and elegance, the dates for the musical are Feb. 27 and 28 at 7:30 p.m. and March 1 at 2 p.m.

More exciting news has recently come to the students of Moravian. The Villars Institute, a nonprofit environmental organization based in Switzerland, has officially extended its international partnership opportunity, the Villars Fellowship, to Moravian Academy starting in the 2026 school year. The Villars Institute seeks to aid in reforming global biodiversity, reach a net-zero planet and spearhead sustainable development. Through this collaboration, two to four students will be selected to attend a symposium in the Swiss Alps consisting of discussions, panels and performances all centered around environmental advocacy. Through this experience of intergenerational education, art and conversation, Moravian joins a legacy of leading global greenness.

As the Lions break through the ice into 2026, we continue to approach each of our successes, challenges and connections with our burning red and gold passion.