PREECEVILLE — The Festival of Trees filled many hearts with Christmas spirit from Dec. 6 to Dec. 9 at the Trinity United Church.
The annual festival of trees encourages individuals to take the time to appreciate what’s special during the busy Christmas season, said Amanda Balyski, organizer.
The trees, brightly lit and hand decorated in different themes, lined the walls of the Trinity United Church in Preeceville. The trees were surrounded by Christmas music, hot apple cider and great fellowship in a tranquil setting, all geared towards enjoying the Christmas season.
“It was very well attended and really got people into the spirit of giving,” said Balyski. “It was a relaxing time to take the time to remember what Christmas is about. The Christmas season is a busy time of year and the festival is a time of sharing, visiting and donating to worthy causes, all surrounded by the spirit of Christmas.”
All tree exhibitors collected donations for various organizations and businesses. Organizations and individuals who displayed a decorated Christmas tree were:
- Pattison Ag with proceeds to Filling the Gap,
- Preeceville LTC for residents activities,
- Preeceville and District Heritage Museum for the museum’s artifacts,
- Preeceville Nursery School collected for class activities and new toys,
- 1 2 3 Care For Me Daycare collected for a outdoor space,
- Lori Wolkowski collected for Heart Beats Child Society,
- Miles and Anna Russell collected for Indspire (Indigenous national charity that invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit and Métis),
- Amber, Rebecca and Hailey Spray had a unique cactus tree and collected for the Saskatchewan 4-H Foundation,
- Preeceville Personal Care Home collected for its activities,
- Paul’s Drugstore collected for Ronald MacDonald House,
- Sturgis Composite School collected for SADD,
- Family Resource Centre collected for the Drop-In-Play program,
- Preeceville Legion elegant tree decorated in red poppies on a white tree collected for the Legion events,
- Whitehawk Arts Council collected for the performing arts,
- Preeceville School collected for its outdoor playground space,
- Josh, Erin and Blake Erickson collected for JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation),
- Preeceville Home Hardware collected for the Preeceville Museum,
- Preeceville Library collected for the Lions Family Walking Trails,
- and collecting for Filling the Gap program were the
- Preeceville St. John Lutheran Church,
- Sturgis Grace United Church,
- Preeceville Trinity United Church,
- Preeceville Gateway Co-op and the
- Sturgis Gateway Co-op.
“As we all know, Christmas trees hold a special place in our hearts and represent the enduring symbol of this joyous season,” stated Rev. David Mugadzi, Preeceville-Sturgis Pastoral Charge United Church.
Originating in Germany, this tree decorating custom started with an endearing legend involving Martin Luther. Legend has it that Luther, on his way home one night, stumbled upon a beautifully frosted and moonlit tree in the forest. Captivated by its enchanting beauty, he decided to share this experience with his children and brought the tree inside their home. This heartwarming story reveals the deep-rooted tradition of adorning evergreen trees during the holiday season.
However, the significance of evergreen trees as symbols of life during the bleak winter season goes beyond the time of Martin Luther. It is fascinating to see how this wonderful tradition has seamlessly evolved into the radiant Christmas trees we see adorned with twinkling lights and an array of dazzling ornaments.
Nowhere is the magical transformation of Christmas trees more pronounced than at our annual Festival of Trees. This much-awaited is a a sight to behold, as numerous Christmas trees are gathered to illuminate the spirit of the season. Imagine stepping into a wonderland of sparkling lights where each tree radiates a message of hope, peace, joy, and love. These magnificent trees symbolize the 'stars' of the Festival of Trees, capturing the essence of this incredible event.
“Our Festival of Trees would not be possible without the dedication of countless volunteers who selflessly contribute their time and effort. These remarkable individuals are the true stars behind the scenes, bringing the festival to life. Additionally, we honour and recognize those who have chosen to dedicate a tree in the name of someone dear to their hearts. The love and spirit of giving embodied by these individuals truly make our Festival of Trees a remarkable event,” Mugadzi said.
“Most importantly, the Festival of Trees is not solely an opportunity for celebration, but also for giving back to our community. All proceeds from the festival will be directed towards supporting individuals, families, and organizations in need. It is with immense pride and gratitude that we welcome you to join us in this noble cause. Your support will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who require assistance and upliftment during this holiday season.
Together, let us spread the light of hope, peace, joy, and love to those in need. By attending this magnificent event, you will contribute to creating a brighter future for our community,” Mugadzi concluded.
