Countdown to Advent: The Jesse Tree

Written By Jenny Gallo

The story of Jesus brings hope, so do trees that absorb the old air and produce fresh air. So, the use of Jesse trees in our churches and homes tell not only stories of faith, but represent symbols of hope for the world. The tradition of the Jesse Tree dates back to medieval times. The name of the tree refers to the lineage of Jesse, mentioned in Isaiah 11:1: “A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” In creating a contemporary Jesse tree, one can use symbols from scriptural references and add others that have particular relevance for the local setting.

Learning is most significant if the message is delivered in several different means. If you have a Jesse tree you might also consider:

  • A prayer of dedication for the Jesse tree.

  • Incorporate hymns with the progressive decorating of the trees.

  • Wearing a teaching stole with Jesse tree symbols. Carrot Top Studio has one here! (shameless plug!?)

  • Use the Jesse tree symbols on bulletin covers.

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Jenny Gallo

Jenny Gallo is the artist and founder of Carrot Top Studio, where she has been designing handmade clergy stoles, Christian art, liturgical gifts, and creative worship resources since 2004. Her work helps churches and individuals explore faith through meaningful symbols, color, and visual storytelling.

A former art educator, Jenny taught art in Chicago, Houston, and Pittsburgh before devoting herself full-time to her studio practice. She holds a B.S. in Art Education from The Pennsylvania State University and now lives and creates in the Madison, Wisconsin area.

Through the Carrot Top Studio blog and Substack, she writes about creativity, Christian symbolism, the liturgical year, and the everyday intersections of art and faith.

http://www.CarrotTopStudio.com
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Colors and Symbols of Advent