KINGS POINT, N.Y., December 17, 2025 -The Mariners’ Memorial Chapel glowed on December 11, 2025, as the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) community gathered to celebrate the Festival of Lights, now in its 48th year. The Academy community marked the blessings of 2025 and shared its hopes for the coming year with an interfaith celebration of Hanukkah and Christmas, reflecting the spiritual traditions that shape the Kings Point community.

USMMA's Command Chaplain Lieutenant Commander Jonathan Jones, CHC, USN, opened the service with a warm welcome to all and expressed gratitude to those whose dedication ensured the evening’s success. CAPT Anthony J. Ceraolo, USMS, USCG (Ret.), Acting Superintendent extended his greeting, and Rabbi Mark Getman offered both the Invocation and the first reading. The community heard readings from the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures, shared by Dr. Michael Melcer, MIDN Jackson Tolle ’26, MIDN Jacob Sopha ’26, MIDN Alex Virostek ’26, MIDN Dan Mahoney ’26, and MIDN Arik Getchell ’26.

Rear Admiral Peter Muschinske, Deputy Chief of Chaplains for Reserve Matters, joined the community and shared his reflections on the meaning of the season. Under the direction of Dr. Wonsun Clara Bae, D.M.A., music from the Mariners Chorus, Chapel Choir, and Band Nonet filled the Chapel. 

The Academy also welcomed Mr. Arthur Grabiner, a World War II Navy Veteran and survivor of the Battle of Okinawa, to celebrate his 100th birthday. His presence filled the chapel with a powerful sense of history, service, and pride. At one point, the entire chapel rose to give Mr. Grabiner 100 seconds of applause in honor of his 100 years, and Rear Admiral Peter Muschinske presented him with his command coin as a tribute to his service and legacy.

Rabbi Getman shared the story of Hanukkah and lit the first candle, accompanied by the Mariners Chorus singing Maoz Tsur (Rock of Ages). Christmas readings and carols followed, including The First Noel, O Holy Night, and selections from Hallelujah and Joy to the World.

The Mariners Chorus—led by President MIDN Brian Beirne ’26 and Vice President MIDN Colin Magill ’26—sang beautifully throughout the evening. Joined by MIDN Brendan O’Rourke ’26, they delivered a moving performance of O Holy Night. The Chapel Choir, the Band Nonet, and Plebe Shi Lee ’29, who performed a beautiful clarinet solo during the prelude, enriched the celebration with music that honored both faith traditions.

MIDN Caleb Scheopner ’26, Chapel Liaison, and other midshipmen ensured everything flowed smoothly. MIDN Colby Smith ’29 managed audio; Plebe Robert Owens ’29 and Plebe Reagan Davis ’29 handled lights and altar preparation; and ushers Plebe Zachery Blansfield and Plebe Travis Filer ’29 welcomed attendees.

The evening concluded with the spreading the light during “Silent Night,” as candles brightened the chapel and connected everyone present. USMMA's Catholic Chaplain, Father Gilbert Omolo, CP, offered the Benediction, praying, "Father, enlighten our minds and our hearts when we stumble in the shadow of darkness, that we may recognize and appreciate the blessings in our lives; hold fast our hand so that we may bring the light to all with courage, humility, and deep respect." He added, "We pray that your light will guide all those travelling during these holidays, that they will safely reach their destinations. Father, bless us and guide us as we come to the close of this festival, that we may go in your peace."

To watch the video, go to Facebook

To see photos by Midshipmen Photographers Plebe Gentry Schneider and MIDN Matthew Beller, 27, go to Flickr

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The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, N.Y., educates and graduates merchant mariners and leaders of exemplary character who will serve America’s maritime transportation and defense needs in peace and war. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is administered by the Department of Transportation.