The Jesse tree is a tradition which recalls the family tree of Christ. Just as children like to know about their parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, they like to know about Christ’s family tree. In making the tree, we look for symbols of important people or events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ. A Jesse tree can be made out of an actual small tree, or it can be made on a piece of felt or burlap or a large piece of construction paper. Symbols are hung or attached to the tree.
This Advent, we will present a Jesse tree in the narthex of the church as a focal point of our environment for the season. Each week more symbols will appear on the tree. The Jesse Tree brochure provides pictures of the symbols along with related scripture passages.
A Jesse Tree is an excellent devotion for the Catholic home. Symbols can be added weekly or daily to trace the persons and events which lead to the birth of Jesus. See the sections below on Setting up a Jesse Tree in your home and to find a Supplier of Jesse Tree symbols. The internet can provide much reference information about the Jesse Tree, some available at the links provided below.
A personal or family resource for the Jesse Tree can be found in
a booklet published by Augsburg Fortress:
“The Jesse Tree: Stories and Symbols of Advent”.
Preferred Supplier:
St. Michael's Knights of Columbus
After weekend Masses in Advent
In the Hallway of the Family Life Center
Online Vendor:
Augsburg Fortress
Phone: 1-800-328-4648
Website: http://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/product/5487/The-Jesse-Tree
Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tree_of_Jesse
Catholic Culture
http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/activities/view.cfm?id=545
Loyola Press
http://www.loyolapress.com/the-jesse-tree.htm