The Stars of Hope program began in 2020, inspired by the ubiquitous stars that shine throughout the community in the Mad River Valley in northern Vermont. There, the stars stand as a sign of unity throughout the communities of Waitsfield, and Warren, VT. 

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The program began at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Staatsburg, along the Hudson River in Dutchess County. They came to St. Mark’s in 2023. We expanded the program in 2024, with 11 stars shining in front of our historic church on East Main Street in Mount Kisco, and stars lit outside eight churches in the Hudson Valley. 

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Stars pop up throughout the Bible. In the first chapter of Genesis, we learn that God created the stars on Day Three, preparing the world for humankind on Day Five. In the Bible’s final chapter, Revelations, Jesus declares: “I am David’s root and offspring: I am the bright morning star.” 

So the life-giving star that warms our planet to sustain life we call the sun, while our Son of God calls himself a star. 

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The star-filled hymns we sing at Christmas remain deeply embedded in our holiday services. There’s the “star of wonder” from We Three Kings, that “star shining in the East” from The First Noel, and the “stars in the bright sky” from Away In A Manger.
 

In 2025, we are partnering with SaveATree, a tree-care company with a branch in Bedford Hills, to supply us with branches to weave. 

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Our stars range in size from 14-inch stars that can top a Christmas tree to 36-inch stars that fit in a window. Stars from 4-to-6 feet can stand outside, with the lights plugged into outdoor outlets.   

 

Those interested in a star can email davidmckaywilson1@gmail.com, by calling or texting 914-217-5600, or by filling out our online order form.