A 54-year-old tradition continues in Monroeville.
The annual tree-lighting celebration and holiday concert, hosted by the Monroeville Historical Society at the Old Stone Church, officially ushered in the season Nov. 25.
“The first event was held in 1969, but years 2020 and 2021 were unfortunately missed due to the covid pandemic,” said Bruce Walker, the group’s president.
Over the years, the tradition has become a staple in the community — generally held the Tuesday before Thanksgiving — and marks the beginning of the holiday season for many.
The Old Stone Church, which sits atop the hill at the corner of Monroeville Boulevard and Stroschein Road, was erected in 1897 using stone from the original church that was built in the same location. Despite not having a parking lot, the Old Stone Church remains a popular wedding venue.
“As we sit here, we know the busyness outside. But it’s quiet inside,” outgoing Mayor Nick Gresock said. “This church stands as a symbol of all things good and positive.”
Mike Wargo, the master of ceremonies, echoed Gresock’s sentiments about the Old Stone Church.
“As I get older, it seems the wholesome holiday traditions I grew up on are falling by the wayside,” Wargo said. “The Old Stone Church tree lighting brings back the comforting feelings from my childhood: neighbors, town pride and a sense of community togetherness.”
The evening included an invocation by Tom Mitlo, director of the Reclamation Community Center, as well as highly anticipated performances of holiday favorites.
Masterworks Concert Chorale, led by Eric Lascek, sang classics such as “Little Drummer Boy,” “Merry Christmas, Darling,” “The First Noel” and “Silent Night,” as well as the profound “Will There Really Be a Morning?” based on Emily Dickinson’s poem of the same name.
Solos were delivered by the chorale’s Morgan Sayre, Janet Pierce, Paul Korbar and Megan Held.
“That is a crazy act to follow,” said guitarist Gabe Ramirez, before going on to perform an exceptional solo rendition of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and many more.
Also in attendance were Mayor-elect Dennis Biondo and District 25 Rep. Brandon Markosek.
“The tree lighting at the Old Stone Church is one of my favorite gatherings of the year,” Markosek said. “It is an opportunity to connect with your neighbors and celebrate the holiday season at a historical landmark.”
A visit from Santa and the lighting of the tree rounded out the evening.
Gresock emphasized the event would not be possible without the municipality and tax dollars that help to maintain the Old Stone Church, while Wargo thanked the historical society, police department and municipality for making the tree lighting and concert happen again this year.
“It is straight out of a Hallmark movie or the Charlie Brown special I watched as a child,” Wargo said. “It’s a wonderful event, and I’m truly honored and privileged to play a small role in it.”
