MORGANTON — As they have done for the past 33 years at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Morganton, the Diego family dedicates the day before the start of Advent to constructing a huge Advent wreath.
The family of Antonio Diego and other parishioners used branches from seven Fraser firs grown in North Carolina to assemble the wreath, which is made from an 11-foot PVC structure suspended by four ropes from the ceiling about 14 feet above the floor. Building the branches takes a couple of hours, and the greenery from a Christmas tree farm in Newland leaves a fresh
pine fragrance that refreshes the space and reminds everyone of the Christmas celebration.
Antonio Diego, who has been creating this work of art for the past three decades, says the wreath means a great deal to the community they serve.
“I think it creates hope for the community. Because it’s so large, it reminds us where we should keep our focus,” Diego said.
Antonio Diego explains that his family feels a deep sense of service when he, his wife Angelina, and their three children work together to create the wreath.
“For us it’s something unforgettable,” he said.
— Brian Segovia
Read more: Advent tradition brings awe and unity to Morganton parish
