As we approach the beautiful season of Christmas, we delight in our ability to bring joy to others through gift giving. Every year at this time, a spirit of excitement and generosity permeate our Narthex as people choose ornaments from the Sharing Tree. We are a blessed people, and we bless others with our goodness.
The Christmas Sharing Tree is located in the Narthex beginning the Sunday before Advent – Our Social Concerns Ministry places numerous Christmas ornament tags on the tree that list specific gift possibilities for a person in need.
You are invited to select an ornament from the Sharing Tree, and purchase the gift requested on the tag. Some tags have several choices. You may choose what to give. Please include gift receipts if appropriate. Do not wrap the gift unless specified on the tag. TAPE THE TAG securely to the outside of the gift. Return it to Church when you come in for Mass. All gifts must be returned on the specified weekend to allow sufficient time for delivery to the recipients. If you are giving a gift card, please place it in the collection basket or turn it in to the Parish Office.
This year you will notice that there are many gift cards on the tree. We realize this isn’t as much fun for you if you want to purchase a gift, but the children who receive the card do something they do not often have the opportunity to do – buy something they would really like to have for themselves. We are told that they get very excited to be able to choose from a number of their wishes.
How glorious our Christmas celebration becomes as we present to God and his people both our spiritual and material gifts!
May God fill your hearts and home with joy this Christmas Season. Thank you for your generosity and goodness.
St. Michael Social Concerns Ministry