Christian Traditions
Blessing of the Backpacks
Each year a special service is held to welcome freshmen and their families to the Upper School. Students place backpacks on the School’s Seal on Pressly Plaza and form a large circle. Teachers and parents form a second ring around the students as they join in prayer.
The Messiah Performance
In celebration of the Christmas season, the Westminster community comes together in McCain Chapel each December for this beloved tradition that dates back more than three decades. Alumni join current students and Westminster’s community chorale to perform the Christmas Portion of Handel’s Messiah in McCain Chapel.
The Lower School Christmas Pageant
The Lower School Christmas Pageant is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Love Hall students cherish this special tradition, learning songs of the season in English, French, and Spanish for the occasion. In addition to the white-robed choir, students also take on the roles of the Holy Family, shepherds, angels, and the Magi and celebrate the Nativity through yuletide songs and biblical recitations.
Christian Emphasis Week
Annually, each division devotes a week to developmentally appropriate special speakers, activities, and student discussion centered on Christianity. Christian Emphasis Week is designed by the chaplains and student leaders within each division. This is a special and intentional time to highlight and celebrate the inspiring and purposeful diversity of Christian theological perspectives, thought, backgrounds, styles of worship, and ways of understanding one’s spiritual journey.
Worship Services
Students across all divisions attend ecumenical Christian worship services in celebration of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. Additional opportunities for prayer, reflection, and worship are also offered at various times throughout the school year.
Middle School Bible Study Groups
Weekly Bible studies led by Upper School students provide Middle Schoolers the opportunity to learn about the Christian faith alongside peers and mentors. The groups foster deep connections that many students maintain well after graduation.
Friday Morning Fellowship
For more than three decades, Upper Schoolers have gathered before school on Fridays to participate in student-led fellowship. Students sing worship songs, hear a Christian message of inspiration from a fellow student, and enjoy a breakfast treat.
Chapel Council
Members of the Middle School Chapel council are responsible for the planning and execution of monthly assemblies that offer opportunities inspiration, reflection, and celebration within the Middle School community. The Council offers students a unique leadership opportunity that directly connects to their spiritual development.