On the afternoon of 2 December, attentive ears suddenly heard bells ringing somewhere in the corridors of the Stiftsschule. When shortly afterwards there was a rumbling in the classrooms, it was clear to many who was coming to visit: St. Nicholas, of course. This time, St. Nicholas was accompanied by his gloomy Schmutzli and glittering angels. When he and his entourage finally moved on, there was little evidence of his visit except for the mandarins and chocolates on the tables and the black marks on the cheeks of almost all the students, left there by Schmutzli as a little souvenir.

That same week, everyone had to get up early on Friday morning, as the Rorate Mass for the entire school community was on the agenda. In addition to the sea of candlelight, the uplifting choir music particularly moved the still somewhat sleepy minds. Even though many visitors were unable to follow the entire service, the special atmosphere of this celebration will certainly remain in their memories.

The Thursday school assembly also had an Advent theme. A small theatre group led by Franziska Bachmann Pfister staged the play ‘Die Falle’ (The Trap) by German author Robert Gernhardt. Music teacher Ruth Mory-Wigger intervened at appropriate moments and led the entire school community in singing Christmas carols.

Finally, we would like to mention the Advent concerts, which are also supported by students from the Stiftsschule Engelberg who enjoy singing. These two performances are ideal for getting into the Christmas spirit and should provide some respite during this often hectic time of year.

With Advent greetings
Benjamin Ledergerber
School pastoral care