Caitlin Geoghegan ’24
As the Christmas season begins yet again, I am filled with excitement for a huge tradition my family takes part in. In late November, I leave flyers in the mailboxes on my street to spread the news about the Summit Luminary Fund. A luminary is a paper bag with a candle set in some sand at the bottom. Each year my family is prepared and thrilled to be Street Captains. Being a Street Captain entails leading a group of people committed to a shared goal, and raising money to support our community, making it a proud title for me. Over the years, donations are given to a wide range of funds. When early December hits, it is time to start collecting donations from all the orders. The huge amount of participation from our street always fills me with joy.
However, our service isn’t finished with just collecting donations. We then have to hand-make each luminary a couple weeks prior to Christmas Eve. Family and friends gather in a neighbor’s garage working countless hours, filling bags with sand and candles. Elbow to elbow, we work hard and listen to Christmas music, chatting as we plug along. Then, after we finish, we collect the orders of luminaries and deliver them to each house. Each family lines the luminaries up in front of their house, and lights them up. As I walk onto our street each Christmas Eve and see the results of our work, I am blown away by its beauty. I can’t wait to make more memories this coming December. This tradition makes me appreciate the importance of coming together to help others; especially in the midst of a chaotic world.
Border by Katie Nguyen ’23