Christmas Tree Planted Back in 1979 Inspires and Unites a Small English Village

Heather Riggleman

A Christmas tree planted back in 1979 inspires and unites a small English village every year. Who knew the wonder, inspiration, and community a tiny little sapling purchased for a mere six bucks in 1978 to celebrate their first year in their home would become a wondrous sight?

Avril and Christopher Rowlands bought the tree to commemorate the first Christmas in their home. They had no idea that decades later, the entire village would come to their home for the annual tree lighting. 

The Christmas Tree Inspires The Whole Community

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Its glow has inspired an entire community for decades, and it all started with a simple act of love and faith. For 45 years, they nurtured that little tree and lovingly draped it in Christmas lights. What began as a small symbol of their love grew into a 52-foot spectacle visible for miles around. Now, every December, they use a cherry picker machine to drape the large tree in lights, and the community joins them in lighting the tree.

It’s a beautiful reminder of how God works in our lives. Often, we may feel like our efforts are small, insignificant, or unnoticed. But in His timing and with His love, those small acts of faith can grow into something much more significant than we could ever imagine. The tree in Inkberrow didn’t just grow tall—it became a symbol of Christmas hope for the entire town, a reminder that light always overcomes darkness.

I encourage you to think of the light you can bring into the world this Christmas season. It may be smaller than a sapling, but it will have a more significant impact than you can imagine. Let’s remember that God can use even the smallest of things to illuminate the world around us.

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Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

WATCH: Christmas Tree Planted Back in 1979 Inspires and Unites a Small English Village



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h/t: Good News Network

Featured Image Credit: Instagram/worcesternews


Heather Riggleman is a believer, wife, mom, author, social consultant, and full-time writer. She lives in Minden, Nebraska with her kids, high school sweetheart, and three cats who are her entourage around the homestead. She is a former award-winning journalist with over 2,000 articles published. She is full of grace and grit, raw honesty, and truly believes tacos can solve just about any situation. You can find her on GodUpdates, iBelieve, Crosswalk, Hello Darling, Focus On The Family, and in Brio Magazine. Connect with her at www.HeatherRiggleman.com or on Facebook.  

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