Each year for the last 19 years, Owensboro Cumberland Presbyterian Church has brought the Christmas story to life through a free, drive-thru journey back to Bethlehem.
“The Greatest Gift of All” is a live nativity organized by church members and friends who are dressed as wise men, angels, shepherds, Mary and Joseph. Completing the manger scene are live sheep and donkeys.
The drive-thru nativity is open to visitors for two nights during the holiday season. This year’s annual live nativity is 6-8 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday at 910 Booth Avenue.
Jan Catron, director of the nativity, said the living nativity sends a message of hope for the future and a reminder of God’s everlasting love.
“During these difficult times, with many events are being cancelled, we are grateful that we are able to make appropriate changes to keep everyone socially distanced and safe,” she said. “We are blessed that we can continue to present this tradition for our community.”
OCPC Rev. Tim McGuire said, “The celebration of Christmas is our annual reminder of how God came to us in the person of Jesus Christ. As we reenact the Holy birth (regardless of how humble the presentation) it is our hope to retell the story for those who need to be reminded of God’s presence among us, and to share with our community the hope, peace and love that is Christ Jesus.”
Due to COVID-19, some changes were made to this year’s event:
- The nativity will be drive-thru only. No one will be allowed to get out of their vehicle or walk up to any of the scenes to pet the animals.
- The church will not be handing out CD’s or ornaments.
- The church will have members social distance and wear masks unless they are in an immediate family group. Characters will arrive in costume and go directly to their assigned spot.
The scenes portrayed throughout the nativity are “The Journey,” “No Room at the Inn,” “The Manger” and “The Greatest Gift of All.”
For more information on the live nativity, contact Owensboro Cumberland Presbyterian Church at 270-683-4479.
