Fire has the historic power to bring people together in the cold. On Dec. 6, Stetson University will host the annual Yule Log Lighting ceremony from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Hulley Tower, which traditionally opens the winter season.

Beginning at Stetson in 1938, the ceremony has deep roots. “The Yule Log holiday itself actually arises from an old pagan ritual that was later adopted by Christians,” said Lindsey Graves, assistant director for Interfaith Initiatives. “Around the winter solstice when it started to get cold, a tree was found in the forest and brought in for warmth.”

However, over time, the Yule Log’s fire became more symbolic of faith and spiritual togetherness.

“The presence of light is in every religious tradition. In every spiritual tradition, there’s teachings about light,” said Graves.

Through featuring perspectives from multiple faiths, such as Islam, Christianity and Judaism, Graves strives for this ceremony’s religious inclusivity.

Alex Sullivan, social science and religious studies senior and president of the Stetson Organization for Native American Revitalization (SONAR), will share a Native American perspective through the story, “The Rabbit and the Owl.”

Featuring an important Native American figure, “The Trickster,” Sullivan said he “wanted to stay true to the Native mythology of the southeastern region. The Trickster is an important entity because he’s often the one that teaches us the most.”

Although Yule Log is focused on celebrating light, Graves notes that it is also a time to reflect and heal. “When we first gather together, we meet in the darkness,” said Graves. “It’s about recognizing some of the painful things that have happened this year.”

Added Sullivan, “The Yule Log ceremony is important, especially during this time on campus now that tensions are very high, because this routine generally spreads positivity to celebrate the holidays. And the best way to do that is to come and drink hot chocolate with your friends.”

The night will also feature caroling and a musical performance led by members of Treble in Paradise, Stetson’s female a capella group.

Notably, this Yule Log will be the first ceremony not facilitated by Chaplain Michael Fronk, due to his health issues. However, Graves said that his hand is felt in the ritual itself — the night of the ceremony is also Fronk’s birthday. “Some people can send love from wherever they are,” said Graves.

Sullivan, who has participated in this ceremony since her first year at Stetson, notes that this one will be her last Yule Log as a student. “It’s gone from being my interest to being what I’m passionate about,” said Sullivan. “It’s been reflective of my personal journey as well as the journey I hope this school is going to take.”

Graves describes it as a special and joyful event.

“There’s something about fire that draws you to it. It’s warm, it’s beautiful. All of your senses are kind of touch by the fire,” said Graves. “There’s something really joyful. It’s a short service with inspirational words shared. And then you get hot chocolate and cookies afterward.”

-Veronica Faison