Jesse Tree Liturgy (a Tri-Parish Event)

 
For many years we have marked the beginning of Advent with the Jesse Tree. The liturgy is rooted in Isaiah 1:11 "A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots." Jesse was the father of David, and Jesus is descended from the line of David. He is the branch God promised would grow from Jesse's family tree. 
 
We tell the story of salvation from Adam and Eve through the resurrection by decorating the tree with symbols. You are invited to make a symbol from our suggestions below and place it on the tree during Mass. Please join in this special way to begin the Advent season.
 
Symbols for the Jesse Tree
Creation (animals, fish flowers, moon, stars, sun, trees, water), Apple, Ark, Rainbow, Many Faces of Abraham, Altar of Stone, Ladder (Jacob), Multi-Colored Coat, Ten Commandments, Wheat, Root, Crown, Harp, Star of    David, Balance Scale, Whale, Shell, Tools, Lily, Madonna, Angel, Bible, Bread, Candle, Church, Chalice, Cross, Dove, Heart, Host, Manger, Paschal Lamb, Star of Bethlehem, Boy, Girl. Use your imagination to create the symbols  using whatever materials you think appropriate.  Make a hole and a yarn (or ribbon) loop so the symbol can be hung on the tree.
 
Patterns are available through the Religious Education Program.
 
Questions? [email protected]