The Giving Tree: Spreading the Joy of the Season

The season of Advent is a great time for us to spread the love and joy of Christ to others. Through our parish’s Giving Tree, we are able to provide gifts for individuals and families in our local community. By taking an ornament and giving a gift, we can spread the hope of Advent and the joy of Christmas to those in need.

“This ministry allows people to help those less fortunate in our community,” says parishioner Kathleen Bays. “It allows us to share the love of Christ, which is important during the Advent and Christmas season. It allows us to reach people that may not attend church or know the love of Christ.”

The Giving Tree has long been a parish tradition at St. Francis Xavier, and has benefited a variety of organizations over the years, including Mission of Hope, Wings of Hope, Birthright, and Salvation Army — it has also directly benefited local families in need. The tree usually goes up around Thanksgiving weekend and is decorated with ornaments indicating what kind of gift to purchase.

“Some gifts come back wrapped while others are returned unwrapped, depending on what is specified,” Kathleen says. “The different agencies we have helped have requested different things. Last year, due to COVID, we collected gift cards and monetary donations — we had over 150 gift cards collected.”

During Advent, we remember and reflect upon God’s greatest gift to us — the gift of His son, Jesus. By reaching out to others in our community, especially those we don’t personally know, we are able to follow the Lord’s example of service and generosity. Parishioners are encouraged to support these local charities, individuals, and families who are counting on our help. In addition to donating gifts, the ministry also needs volunteers to set up the tree, work with the various agencies to identify their needs, and sort and deliver gifts.

Throughout her time volunteering for the Giving Tree, Kathleen has witnessed the Lord’s faithfulness, and her own faith has grown in turn.

“It has been a true blessing to be a part of this ministry and see how others take great care and detail to help those in need,” she says. “For instance, one year, children’s books were requested — not only were the books given but a small children’s backpack was given as well. There have been some years I have worried that requested gifts would not be fulfilled — to my amazement, someone has always stepped up. God is always so faithful.”

If you would like more information about the Giving Tree, or to get involved, please contact the parish office at 405-372-6886.