That is the Big Tree in Goose Island State Park, Lamar, Texas. Perhaps it is providential that the Big Tree is next to the Schoenstatt Shrine of Mary, Mother Thrice Admirable, at Lamar. Experts say the Big Tree was alive 1000 years ago. It might even be older. Popular legend says it was alive when Jesus was on the earth.
Botanists doubt it is that old.
However, the ancient live oak tree is a living reminder that the gift of life coming from the hand of God can last through the years. The gift of the Father, Jesus, is still with us 2000 years later. Wherever your Christmas journeys take you, I hope your way will be blessed by the light of God's Son shining from the arms of Mary his Mother. In a special way Christ's faithful are united around the altar at Christmas. As Jesus became present in Bethlehem that first Christmas, I pray he will be present to you in your Christmas Mass and Holy Communion which unites us to one another as brothers and sisters in the Lord.