The living Nativity

O HOLY NIGHT: Eve and Ethan Allen with baby in manger. - Submitted photo

Pastor Tim Gray had experience in leading a "Living Nativity" at his previous church in the Meridian, Idaho, area and shared his ideas. One usually envisions a "Living Nativity" as a simple manger scene with Mary, Joseph and little Jesus and a few bails of straw.

However, this was not the case as members of the Adventist church gathered in enthusiastic support once they had heard of the grandeur plans.

Upon seeing the public's reaction to last year's inaugural event, plans were laid out almost immediately to have it again. Various members from other church denominations even asked how they could help out.

Under the direction of Jim Bars, Cove, departments (such as Building, Artwork, Costumes, Livestock, Acting, Refreshments, Painting, Parking Lot and Prayer Warriors) were organized months ago with leaders in each. Volunteers were then able to sign up in the areas of interest. Volunteer forms were also sent to other local churches who had expressed an interest.

For the second year in a row, the community is invited to come experience the "Reason for the Season" as actors and live animals bring the Biblical account of Christ's birth to life. Stroll through the town of Bethlehem while encountering Roman guards, the census taker, shepherds, inn keeper, angels, wisemen and more.

A new addition to last year's event is an extended "city" featuring an additional 13 shops. Stretching from the outside setting of last year's event into the enclosed transformed school's gymnasium, the city now includes various replicas of shops of blacksmith, fish market, salt sellers, money changers, candle makers, dye shop, temple and even an early Jewish home setting.

In addition to a donkey, sheep, llamas and goats, another exciting livestock addition to this year's event will be "Clyde" the camel (weather permitting).

Local artist Jon Hanley has assisted in illustrating the various shops into authentic replicas of the recreation of Bethlehem.

Fully costumed "actors" will further enhance the setting as each will portray their story of the Living Nativity.

Submitted photo

Guests to Bethlehem are encourage to stay awhile and fellowship with light refreshments and hot drinks to the background of Christmas music. Supervised activities for the small ones will also be available.

Last year's event drew approximately 625 registered guests of Bethlehem by the census taker (not counting the more than 70 volunteers who helped each evening).

This year's event is expected to draw more than 1,500 guests as word spreads.

The event is completely free and open to the public — nothing will even be sold at the shops! However, donations will gladly be accepted to help defray the expense of the program as well as to the Adventist Development and Relief Agency.

The event is run entirely by volunteers.

Many local businesses have also helped assist in this year's event including Thunder RV, Countryside Homes and Buildings, Millers Hardware and Eastern Oregon Nursery and Landscaping.