Joyful voices in the night. Photo by Mary Walton
Hurricane Sandy destroyed the tree in Auditorium Park that was always strung with lights this time of year. But that didn’t dampen the Camp Meeting’s annual tree lighting ceremony on Friday night. Volunteers from Calvary Relief provided a new, smaller tree — about 10 feet high. Christmas lights went on. Carols were sung. And the season’s message of peace, hope and joy survived.
The previous tree was roughly 25 feet high when the hurricane toppled it. It had been donated 18 years ago by two sisters in memory of their parents. This year, said Camp Meeting Interim Administrator Ralph delCampo, “We spoke to Calvary Relief and said we were looking to replace the tree. They were very generous. One of their members is in the landscape business, and he donated the tree, including planting it.”
Calvary Relief, a Christian organization specializing in good works, has been helping storm victims in several Jersey Shore towns, including Ocean Grove.
— MW and CL
The new Christmas tree. Photo by Tracey James
hmmmm. I was born and live in Ocean Grove and work at the hospital. I wish Sal would tell my bank account I am affluent.
When did all of Ocean Grove become affluent? Accept the tree in the spirit of love and generosity that its given in. Geez, lighten up! Whatever happened to just saying “thank you” when someone does something nice?
I have thought about this for a while and have come to the conclusion that I absolutely fail to see any valid reason why this gift, given in the spirit of love and the season, should be bantered about or questioned. Do I detect a bit of “hum-bug” in the air here?
Why didn’t the HOA gift a tree then? As a non-profit I am sure Calvary Relief needs every penny possible to help those affected by tragedy. The free tree cost this generous person some of his “inventory” that could have generated income for his landscape business. Sure, he’ll get a tax break for his donation but aren’t tax breaks for businesses (large or small) considered evil nowadays.
Sal,
Believe the tree lighting event is sponsored by the CMA, and the CMA is in charge of Auditorium Park plantings, including who plants what.
Sal : I don’t think it is about ” needing ” Calvary Relief to donate the tree. Per the article one of the kind members of this great group stepped forward and donated the tree. Being gifted this Christmas tree rather then simply buying one is a very wonderful example & expression of holiday spirit & love.
Not for nothing but why does an affluent town like Ocean Grove need Calvary Relief to donate a tree? Certainly our homeowners association could afford a new tree, right?
I’m sorry I missed this last night. However, I see my two grandsons Matthew and Michael singing and enjoying themselves. Nothing could make me happier than to see those two little boys caught up in the beauty and joy of the season.