Giving Tree Gets a New Trunk!
First and foremost I want to thank Jennifer Salem, Courtney Shott and Dana Thomas for their many years of managing the various aspects of the Giving Tree operation. They were the trunk, the foundation, the well oiled machine, with each person working hard to do their part for the whole, extending their branches to lend support. Under their leadership hundreds of children and families have received thousands of gifts, ensuring as many families as possible receive a bit of Christ's love and Christmas Joy in their home. Due to life circumstances they have all had to put down their Santa hat this year as we looked for new leadership.
Which leads me to thanking Meagan and Dennis Ittner, Rich Bina and Greg Bellavia for stepping in to fill their shoes...or shiney black Santa boots as the case may be. And a thank you to Michael Stull for continuing his effort to be the behind the scenes elf working out all of the logistics. But the need does not stop with these parishioners stepping up. They will need your support with the many aspects that make Giving Tree work: setting up boxes, gift buying, gift wrapping, double checking bags for accuracy, loading up the correct boxes for delivery. There are MANY ways you can help beyond sponsoring a child or a family with a gift and/or money. Please prayerfully consider how you can share God's love for all of humanity during the holiday season by giving your time to the Giving Tree. They have a new trunk, they just need some more branches to help spread the love.
See Greg Bellavia in the back of the parish hall this Sunday to learn more.
Peace,
Rev. Rachel+
