The spirit of the holidays is truly universal — or in the case of our global language clubs, international! On December 12, the PMHS language clubs went on their annual holiday caroling trip to the Bayberry Care Center, a nursing home right outside Pelham. The Italian, French, and Mandarin clubs ventured five minutes away to New Rochelle to sing to patients for the holiday season.

It was PMHS’ 25th year caroling, and their silver anniversary of community service was even recognized with a plaque. For more than two decades, Pelham students have learned carols in their respective languages to perform for those at the nursing care facility.

“We’ve been bringing the clubs there so the people that live there have some holiday joy,” Italian teacher and club advisor Mrs. Prignano said

The Italian Club started off the festivities with Tu Scendi Dale Stelle and Astro del Ciel (the Italian version of Silent Night). Next, the French Club, performed Vive le Vent (the French version of Jingle Bells). Finally, the Asian Culture Club sang We Wish You a Merry Christmas. For the finale, all the clubs gathered around and sang with the patients, from beloved traditional songs such as Frosty the Snowman and The Hanukkah Song. When the caroling was over, members from all the clubs gave out handmade cards in different languages to the patients.

“It was fun to see the smiles on all of their faces while we were caroling and gave out our handmade holiday cards,” senior Emma Potter said.

Although the caroling was just a mere 30 minutes, the response it garnered was timeless.

“[The caroling trip] gives students a glimpse into a world they may not be aware of and heightens their sensitivity to people in other situations,” Mrs. Prignano said.