Joy of the Nenagh Christmas Tree Festival

Saint Cronan’s Association, which provides services to people with intellectual disabilities, is the partner for this year's Nenagh Christmas Tree Festival.

One of the winning trees last year was their ‘Journey to Bethlehem’, telling the Christmas story from the visit of the angel Gabriel to Mary to tell her she has been chosen to be the mother of Jesus, all the way to the coming birth in a stable. It was designed and created with a brainstorming session and used story boards to develop the scenes along the way.

The arts & crafts and woodwork group were responsible for much of it, including the cutting out of figures and the crocheted and stiffened angels and snowflakes. It was so beautifully thought out and brought joy to everyone who saw it, and particularly the children. This winning tree illustrates once again that ‘ability’ is the key element of ‘disability’.

Trees are unique to the individual. This new one, by Isobel Deere, is hung with animals and has a dedication: “This tree is in remembrance of my grandad James, who loved animals, especially horses. Hope you like my tree. Merry Christmas everybody. From Isobel.”

Come to the Nenagh Christmas Tree Festival and see what else people have created at St Mary’s Church of Ireland, Wednesday December 13th to Sunday December 17th, 1-6pm each day.