From the King Street Chronicle: 12th Annual Come Home for Christmas Celebration

Ringing in the holiday season with the 12th annual Come Home for Christmas celebration

By Michaela White ’26, Co-Features Editor

Sacred Heart Greenwich celebrated the holiday season with its 12th annual Come Home for Christmas event Sunday, December 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The school welcomed current students, families, and alumnae for a fun-filled day that included family Mass, brunch, a holiday shopping boutique, and festive activities, such as photos with Santa, Santa’s Secret Shop for children, and gingerbread house decorating in the Athletic Center.

Family Mass began in the chapel at 11 a.m. The liturgy featured songs from the Upper School Madrigals who performed “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” “People Look East,” “Hail Mary, Gentle Woman," and "Ready the Way." In addition, several seniors served as Eucharistic Ministers. The Mass offered a peaceful moment of reflection, marking the start of Advent and the close of the liturgical year. Senior Caroline Hopley, Head of Campus Ministry, reflected on how this Christmas chapel builds community and strengthens the bond between the Madrigals.

“I love coming in with all my friends to sing for our families and bring Christmas cheer,” Caroline said. “As a senior, I enjoy cherishing the bonds I have made with fellow Madrigals throughout high school. This chapel is an exciting time to sing our favorite songs and come together to reflect on a sacred holiday very special to our community.”

After the service, families gathered in Hayes Hall for brunch and later enjoyed a variety of Christmas activities in the Athletic Center. Salisbury Hall transformed into a magical, snow-dusted backdrop for photos with Santa, while the Dubois Gym filled with joyful holiday energy as children explored Santa’s Secret Shop. Vendors set up booths for holiday shopping, and children and students decorated gingerbread houses.

Families browsed the displays, supporting local small businesses while embracing the warmth of the season. Throughout the day, the Athletic Center hosted an expanded holiday boutique, selling handcrafted jewelry, clothing, home goods, artisanal treats, children's toys, seasonal decor, and artwork. Caroline shared how the holiday vendors not only bring festive spirit to campus but also showcase the creativity and community that make Come Home for Christmas such a beloved Sacred Heart tradition.

“I love all the excitement that the activities bring to not just the younger kids but to the high school students as well,” Caroline said. “I really look forward to this event every year because I think it is such a beautiful way to celebrate the Christmas holiday with family and friends.”

Featured Image by Michaela White '26

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