Tree of Jesse Symbols

On the two Sundays preceding the feast of the Nativity, the Church commemorates the forefathers and the fathers: the prophets and saints of the Old Testament who prepared the coming of Christ. Ask participants to skim Matthew 1 in their bible.

Each student may quietly note or list any names that he or she recognizes or any verse that sounds familiar (note esp. v. 23). Give them a chance to give feedback on the connections they have made. Tell the participants that the Sunday before the Nativity of the Lord (December 18-24) is known as the Sunday of the Holy Fathers. On this day the Church commemorates all those who were well-pleasing to God from all ages, from Adam to St. Joseph the Betrothed of the Most Holy Theotokos, those who are mentioned in the genealogy of Luke 3:23-38. The holy prophets and prophetesses are also remembered today, especially the Prophet Daniel and the three holy youths (December 17).

Give the participants information about the “Tree of Jesse” as related in Isaiah 11:1:

The Jesse tree represents Jesus' family tree. The name is taken from Isaiah 11:1 – “There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” - in which Jesus is referred to as a shoot coming up from the stump of Jesse, the father of David.

Divide up the following symbols which could be written on large index cards. Have each participant look up the information in the bible about the forefather of Christ and explain the symbol to the rest of the class.

Suggested Symbols