Stetson University invites the community to join in its annual Yule Log Lighting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, at Hulley Tower between DeLand Hall and Chaudoin Hall, located at 513 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand. The annual ritual, which traditionally opens the holiday season at Stetson University, is sponsored by the campus Student Christian Ministries and the Chaplain’s Office. The event is free and open to the public. Parking is available across the street behind Allen Hall and Flagler Hall, both of which are located near the intersection of N. Woodland Blvd. and W. Minnesota Ave. 

This tradition began at Stetson in 1938 with the lighting of candles in the women’s residence halls. According to tradition, the Yule Log ceremony, added 10 years later, brings good luck and happiness to those who take part. 

President Wendy B. Libby will offer the welcome to the community. Music Professor Lloyd Linney will sing “What Child Is This?” and “Sweet Little Jesus Boy.” Sims Kline, research librarian, will play seasonal selections on keyboard. The crowd will be led in singing carols, signaling the start of the outdoor festivities in front of the blazing Yule Log.

Honorary Stetson alumna Monya Winzer Gilbert, daughter of the late Geoffrey and Marjorie Gilbert of the Stetson University faculty, will read the tradition of the Yule Log kindling. A custom traced to the Druids of northern Europe, it is said to bring good luck and happiness to all who take part. Marjorie Gilbert researched and wrote The Story of the Yule Log for Stetson.

Students will read from Scripture, and Stetson University Chaplain Michael Fronk will offer the Seasonal Reflection. After the Reflection, members of the Student Christian Ministries and other student ministries will invite participants to join them in casting sprigs on the fire, representing the year past, and in lighting candles from the Yule Log flame. Participants will then move to the Carlton Union Building circle, where refreshments will be served after the ceremony.

For additional information, contact Stetson University’s Chaplain’s Office at (386) 822-7523.