On Tuesday 29 November 2016, Saint George Church together with Compeer of Greater Buffalo lighted “The Tree of Hope” which will rest on the church property for the Holy Season and through the New Year. The tree symbolizes a partnership and commitment of working together to serve the community by bringing awareness to mental health issues. Compeer of Greater Buffalo uses the healing power of friendship to help change lives by recruiting, screening, and matching trained volunteers and mentors in one-to-one supportive friendship relationships with children, adults, military veterans and seniors striving for good mental health.

“Our relationship with Compeer began almost seven years ago and has continued to grow and strengthen over the years through our cooperation in working together to bring help and assistance to those in need,” said Father Jason Vansuch (parish rector). “As part of our continued outreach ministry here at Saint George Church, we host 4-5 Compeer events per year amongst other charity events. Beginning with last year at the first Annual Lighting of ‘The Tree of Hope’ ceremony, this has become a tradition where we pray that through the presence of the Tree of Hope we will be able to bring joy, peace, hope, love, and prayer to everyone, especially during this Holy Season.”