On December 5, we held the 25th annual Christmas illumination light-up ceremony, along with the Sophia Christmas Square event, featuring a charity bazaar and mini live performances. This year was the first time that both events were held on the same day, which drew a larger crowd of students and faculty than in previous years.
The theme of the lighting ceremony was “Light of Hope.” The Sophia Choir sang hymns, and Fr. Yosuke Sakai, S.J., Director of the Catholic Jesuit Center offered a prayer. When the illuminations adorning the large tree in North Gate Plaza lit up, cheers echoed across the campus and people captured the moment with photos and videos. The illuminations during the ceremony were powered by solar-generated electricity supplied by the Office for the Promotion of Diversity and Sustainability, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.
Sophia Christmas Lights 2025 Illumination Period:
December 5, 2025 – January 5, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
The concept of “Sophia Christmas Square” is “Connecting Lights, Moments of Warmth.” Just as one light illuminates and spreads to another, light gently connects people’s hearts and creates warmth. This concept reflects the desire to create a special, heartwarming moment for everyone. The lights come on, and people experience connection and warmth together.
The event featured seven groups, each with a unique booth along the main street. These ranged from selling goods created by each group to hands-on activities, such as accessory-making workshops and shooting games.
Participating groups included:
Sophia Pacific, ASANTE Project, Sophia Love Letters, Nexnect, The Office for the Promotion of Diversity and Sustainability, +Re: Pura-ri, and Sophia Givers
The “Sophia Love Letters” project involved the completion of the Forest of Love Tree, which was achieved by collecting leaf-shaped message cards. Messages of gratitude and encouragement are written on these cards, covering the entire trunk. Additionally, the café, PRONTO served warm winter snacks and drinks.
The Sophia Handbell Choir performed classic Christmas songs on handbells on the main stage, and Acoustic Studio held an acoustic live performance. Visitors spent a warm and joyful time accompanied by music.