Churches set Laurel Hill Living Nativity

LAUREL HILL — A personal journey of spiritual discovery awaits Dec. 9 as the Laurel Hill and Crestview Presbyterian churches present their annual Living Nativity.

As the winter sun sets, the grounds of the historic Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church become aglow with the soft light of hundreds of luminaria, lighting the way for visitors to embark on their "journeys to Bethlehem."

Unlike static living nativity scenes, visitors follow the lit pathways as they meet actors portraying biblical characters to whom unfolded what has been called "the greatest story ever told."

From the home of Dr. Luke — the apostle St. Luke, who wrote much of the Bible story of Jesus’ birth, was, in fact, a medical doctor — where the stage for their 20-minute journey is set, to the manger in Bethlehem, guests meet a Roman census taker, the virgin Mary, her fiancé Joseph, shepherds tending their flock, an angelic herald, King Herod, the three kings, and, at last, the holy family.

Following their experience, visitors are invited into the historic church for fellowship and refreshments.

"It’s one thing to read about the wonder of Jesus’ incarnation in human form in the Bible," said the churches’ pastor, the Rev. Mark Broadhead. "Our living nativity is an opportunity to experience some of the drama and excitement that led to our savior’s birth."

The Living Nativity runs continuously from 5:30 until 8 p.m. Groups and families are welcome.

WHAT: Living Nativity, a spiritual journey performed by live actors

WHEN: 5:30-8 p.m. Dec. 9

WHERE: Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church, 8115 Fourth St.; parking at the Laurel Hill School track, Fourth Street and Park Place

COST: Free

DETAILS: Fellowship and refreshments follow. The event involves about 20 minutes of walking over unpaved but even ground.

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This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Churches set Laurel Hill Living Nativity