Cumberland Presbyterian Church and Harvest Baptist of Owensboro are hosting drive-thru Living Nativity events this weekend.
For over 21 years, Cumberland Presbyterian Church has hosted their event that began from an idea by Jan Catron, who still directs the event.
The idea behind the event is so that people can experience the night of Jesus’ birth from the comfort of their vehicle. Cumberland has five scenes that begin with the journey and end with a cross after His birth. Animals include a camel, donkeys, and goats.
Catron said that about 50 people are involved in the production, including behind-the-scenes crew who volunteer to help and feed the actors inside the church.
“The ‘Be Kind’ signs the church sells are part of the ‘Give Because He Gave’ ministry,” Catron said. “The proceeds from the signs pay for this event, a bed at St. Benedicts, and donations to local charities.”
Pastor Greg Dowdy at Harvest Baptist of Owensboro said that while this is only their second year presenting the Living Christmas story, he hopes many come to see their message through the cast of close to 100 and including animals as well.
“The birth of the Messiah has brought hope to this world for literally thousands of years,” Dowdy said. “With so much turmoil and heartbreak in our world, our prayer is that this presentation will reignite that hope for our community.”
Harvest Baptist’s Nativity differs from Cumberland’s in that it is a presentation of the life of Jesus Christ.
“While the manager [or] nativity is part of the story, it is only one of eight scenes,” Dowdy said. “We also highlight Christ’s purpose – the Cross on which He died. The last scene is the empty tomb, for ‘He is not here; He is risen.’”
Both churches’ drive-thru is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on December 10 and 11. Harvest Baptist is offering a shepherd-guided walkthrough of the event at 5 p.m., weather permitting, for groups up to 25 people.
Registration for the walkthrough will be on Harvest Baptist of Owensboro’s Facebook page.
“We hope those that come to see our story will also go to see the other,” Catron said. “We want to share the meaning of Christmas with the community.”
Cumberland Presbyterian Church is located at 910 Booth Ave.
Harvest Baptist of Owensboro is located at 4430 Old Calhoun Rd.
