Tree Lighting Ceremony & Festivities

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Carroll Campus
O'Connell
Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities

Join us for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony! We'll process after the 4:00 p.m. Mass in All Saints Chapel to gather on the northeast corner of O’Connell Hall. Or you can meet us there!

Cocoa and cookies will be served in the Upper Campus Center at 5:30 p.m. following the ceremony and a stroll through campus to look at all the lights. We'll also decorate the big tree in the Campus Center as we hear from the Carroll College campus chapel choir.

Fr Bart Tolleson Book Signing

Additionally from 5:30-7:00 p.m., Father Bart Tolleson will be signing his book, That Was Father Stu: A Memoir of My Priestly Brother and Friend. Fr. Stu (Stuart Long) grew up in Helena and attended Carroll College, graduating in 1986. His experience at Carroll played a very important role in his life. While at Carroll he played football for two years and then developed a passion for boxing, in which he excelled. He graduated with a degree in English literature and writing. Stu was ordained a priest by Bishop Thomas on December 14, 2007, at the Cathedral of St. Helena, along with his good friend Father Bart Tolleson.

You will have an opportunity to purchase a signed copy of the book through our Saints' Shoppe.

About the Book

This inspiring, insightful, and often humorous look at the life of Father Stuart Long is told by his close friend Father Bart Tolleson. After their relationship began and almost ended with a practical joke, the two men were ordained together and forged a strong, lasting friendship. As the exuberant, edgy Father Stu confronted a rare degenerative disease, the former brawler and professional boxer used every ounce of his declining strength to fight the good fight for souls.

Also included in this book is the enduring legacy of Father Stu, whose moving story continues to draw people closer to God, especially in times of suffering. His life inspired actor Mark Wahlberg to produce the film drama Father Stu, in which Wahlberg plays the title role. Father Bart, who was consulted by the makers of the film, provides interesting background on the movie.

Part of A Carroll Christmas: A Spirit of Christmas, Serving, and Giving festivities. Hosted by the Division of Finance, Administration & Facilities Management.

Thank you to our sponsors