If you are stressed about your upcoming exams, feel like getting into the holiday spirit or are just curious about one of Wake Forest's most "loved" traditions, there is only one solution: the Lovefeast.

Those unfamiliar with the service may be wondering what kind of a feast could be held in Wait Chapel, and what it has to do with love or anything else for that matter. At 8 p.m. on Dec. 8, go to the chapel and see for yourself.

The Moravian Lovefeast has been celebrated on campus since 1965, when a sophomore student of Moravian faith decided she wanted to share her tradition with the campus community.

According to Chaplain Ed Christman, she and her roommate made signs to post around campus, contacted a Moravian band to perform and got in touch with the Chaplain's office to sponsor the service, which was held in Davis Chapel.

"We quickly outgrew Davis," Christman said, "and started having two services, one at 5 p.m. and one at 7, and we washed the good mugs in between. Then we moved to Wait Chapel, got the Concert Choir to sing, added more dieners, and the lovefeast continued to grow."

There are now 56 "dieners" -- the German word for server --every year, as well as the university's Concert and flute choirs, a Moravian band, carillon and organ music and local Moravians to lead the service.

The Lovefeast has been a Moravian tradition since the first service in Europe in 1747, a meal to share in the spirit and joy that Christ was present in their community, despite bitter persecution by other Christian factions.

The word "lovefeast" is a literal translation of the word "agape" found in the New Testament. The ceremony is used to celebrate special occasions and promote the spirit of peace and unity within the community. This spirit makes the Lovefeast a wonderful way to usher in the holiday season, a time of new life, light and forgiveness in many religions.

The large Moravian stars hanging both inside and in front of the chapel represent the star of Bethlehem, which led the angels, shepherds and wise men to the baby Jesus. Christman is very proud of the multi-pointed stars, especially the 67 lb. one that shines from the front of the chapel.

While the indoor star was fashioned by a local Moravian who is active in missionary work, the more durable star needed for withstanding the wind was purchased jointly by Christman and Bill Sides, a local Moravian and friend of the Chaplain's.

"The stars will hang in the chapel until Epiphany in January," said Christman, who feels they are important because "they bring the message of Christmas clearly to center stage."

Many campus organizations are involved in the production of the Lovefeast, which has grown steadily over the years.

Alpha Phi Omega, a coed service fraternity, decorates the Quad with luminaries in anticipation of the service and many members work as dieners or simply attend the Lovefeast.

Senior Erik Lindahl, president of APO, said the luminaries "give the Quad a nice feel," for the ceremony. "I'm looking forward to it," he said. "I would say it's the single experience that puts me in the holiday spirits. Seeing the chapel with the lights turned low and the candles lit is an amazing experience."

Many people feel the same way about the service, which incorporates beautiful Christmas music, candlelight and, of course, a feast.

Upon entering, everyone receives a candle, and is served a cup of coffee, and a Moravian bun, made by a local baker.

In the spirit of unity, the coffee and buns are traditionally eaten together once everyone has been served, and the candles are lit, which is a truly breathtaking sight in the darkened chapel.

The Lovefeast leaves attendees with a strong feeling of community, it is easy to see why the ceremony has become so popular.

"One Moravian minister told me it was largest Moravian lovefeast served inside in North America," Christman said. "We expect 2,000 plus people, even though it is, or perhaps because it is on eve of exams."

People of all ages and faiths are welcomed and encouraged to attend the Lovefeast. It is a wonderful way to let go of the stress of school and embrace the holiday spirit.

It is also a great opportunity to give to charity. The Catholic Campus Ministry will have collection boxes in the Chapel and will be taking donated blue jeans to distribute on their mission trip to Costa Rica.

Offerings will also be accepted after the service for Prodigals Community and Samaritan Ministries.