Parishioners gathered in the courtyard of Gibbsboro’s Saint Andrew the Apostle Church on Dec. 10 to pray, sing carols and light the Christmas Tree Memorial Garden.
“This memorial garden is a special way for families to feel the spirit and presence of their loved ones during the Christmas season, when they are often missed the most,” said Msgr. Louis Marucci, parish pastor.
“Four years ago, a parishioner shared how upset she was when she discovered the Christmas wreath left on her husband’s grave had been stolen,” he said in explaining how the memorial tree tradition began. “She replaced it a second time, only to discover the second one was also stolen. When she shared her story, I thought, at Christmastime, what better place could there be to remember a loved one than the parish grounds? Parishioners could remember a loved one by reserving a memorial Christmas tree and decorating it with a theme that reflects elements of the person’s life. The memorial sign in front of the tree helps passers-by keep their loved ones in prayer.”
This year, 50 trees were reserved for the memorial garden. After the trees were lit, Msgr. Marucci blessed each one and the family members.
“It is impressive to see the creativity and beauty among these decorated trees,” Msgr. Marucci said. For example, he explained, “The tree remembering 14-year-old Kara Lemanowicz lights up the sky in purple, a reminder of Kara’s favorite color. The tree remembering Bill Stengel is adorned in green, white and red, with motorcycle images to reflect his passion for riding. The one remembering George Quinn is covered with numerous family photographs that depict George’s infectious smile and love for family.”
Msgr. Marucci said he frequently gazes out the second-floor window of the rectory to see drivers pass through the parking lot, traveling slowly from tree to tree, admiring the garden’s beauty. He named this year’s garden “A Rosary Memorial Garden,” because the 50 trees reflect the 50 Hail Marys prayed on a Rosary. He said he visits the garden every day to pray the Rosary and a Hail Mary at each tree. Parishioners are invited to the church at noon Monday through Saturday to pray this special Rosary as well.
“The greatest satisfaction occurred last year when I watched three cars pull up to one tree. Several family members got out, circled a tree and joined hands. Each member wore an ugly Christmas sweater and a Santa hat. The grandmother offered a brief prayer; each person stated their favorite memory of their grandfather, and then they sang ‘Silent Night’ together. It brought tears to my eyes.”
Msgr. Marucci offered special thanks to the parish’s Knights of Columbus, who coordinate this project each year. The trees will remain lit through Jan. 9, the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which brings an end to the Christmas season. After parishioners remove their decorations, the trees will be donated to a local goat farm to serve as a post-Christmas feast for the animals.
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