On this especially wet and windy day, the students from all three divisions assembled in the Martin Theater during which a Senior recited the traditional Candlelighting poem, written by Dalton alumna Nancy Cardozo '36. A student representative from each grade then crossed the stage to light a candle in the presence of the entire assembly and Ellen C. Stein, Head of School. Representatives from the different Dalton constituencies followed — including parents, faculty and alumni — lending a feeling of continuity to the ceremony. Music was provided by the High School Chorus as well as two a cappella groups. 

First Program students joined their Middle School Buddy Houses for a visit and accompanied them to the Martin Theater. There were four Candlelighting Assemblies. 

Candlelighting Poem
In the season of the sun's re-birth
on the eve of the winter solstice
I consecrate this house 
with light.

Build your House upon the Hill of Truth
and may the Cornerstone be clean of Ornament
that it give a strong Foundation unto the Walls.

Even as the Doorway of the Dawn 
make your Doorway beautiful,
that the angels of Starlight and Sunlight
may enter thereunder with spread Wings.

And may the Light of your Window be wide
for the Wisdom of the Soul abides
in Mansions of the sky.

May the Roof of your Dwelling be Love 
the Sentinel, the Wing of the Arch angel 
the great Fire.

The winter solstice is holy with candles
which are bright
as the fruit of the holly
or as children's prayers,
for in the light of little things
the soul has its dawning,
and is reborn.

Nancy Cardozo '36