Bringing Joy This Christmas: The St. Michael Jesse Tree Ministry
As we enter the season of giving, St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church invites you to participate in a cherished tradition: the Jesse Tree Ministry. This initiative exemplifies our parish’s commitment to serving families in need, spreading hope, and making the holidays brighter for children in our community.
What is the Jesse Tree Ministry?
The Jesse Tree Ministry has been an integral part of St. Michael outreach for many years, assisting families of elementary school children in Cary and beyond. Working in partnership with social workers from schools, Wake County agencies, and our own Pastoral Care and Hispanic Ministries, the program provides Christmas presents for children aged 0-18 and food gift cards to help families with holiday meals.
This year, we aim to support 390 families—40 more than last year—and 1,045 children from 12 schools and community organizations, including Cary Elementary, Kingswood Elementary, and Cooperative Extension of Wake County. With your help, we can bring joy and relief to those in need.
How the Jesse Tree Works
- The Ornaments
In our gathering space, we have adorned three trees with ornaments, each representing a child’s gift request. These ornaments are created based on wish lists provided by schools, ministries, and agencies. - Taking an Ornament
Parishioners are invited to select an ornament, fulfill the gift request, and return the wrapped gift along with the child’s card attached to the church by Sunday, December 8. - Gift Sorting and Distribution
Once the wrapped gifts and cards are collected, volunteers sort and prepare them for distribution. Any missing or incomplete gifts are supplemented to ensure every child’s wish is fulfilled. Agencies will then pick up the gifts for delivery, with all distributions completed by December 15.
Ways to Get Involved
Volunteer
It’s a great opportunity for families to volunteer together by selecting ornaments, shopping, sorting, and helping on distribution day. This is a large-scale mission, and we need your help! Over 100 volunteers are required to assist with tasks like sorting, shopping, wrapping, and setting up. There are roles for all skill levels, and it’s a wonderful way to give back during the holiday season.
Please signup here.
Donate
In addition to wrapped gifts, monetary donations are crucial for providing food gift cards to over 300 families. Contributions can be made online (scan the QR code below) or in person. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference.
Click here to donate online.
The Impact of Your Generosity
By participating in the Jesse Tree Ministry, you’re making a profound impact on families and children in our community. Schools in our area will see their students’ holiday wishes come true. Partner agencies like One Wake will also distribute these blessings to families in need.
Your kindness helps ensure that no family feels forgotten this Christmas.
Join Us in Spreading Holiday Cheer
Help us make this year’s Jesse Tree Ministry a success!
- Grab an ornament from the trees in our gathering space.
- Return wrapped gifts by December 8.
- Volunteer or donate to support this vital mission.
Remember to sign up as a volunteer or donate using the links above.
Together, let’s share the spirit of Christmas with those who need it most.
