The Live Nativity at Gray Methodist Church is this weekend with a hint of the addition of a couple of surprise animal characters.
The annual nativity will be presented Dec. 12-14 from 6-9 p.m. The church is located at 121 Gordon St., and entry to view the scenes is once again from Stewart Avenue, crossing in front of the W.E. Knox Civic Center. Signs with further instructions will be posted at the entrance.
Members of Gray Methodist started the Live Nativity in 2002. In addition to the actors in the various scenes that tell the story of the birth of Jesus, there is also a stable with livestock.
Last year, micro mini donkeys and cows were added, courtesy of Steven Crager, who is the owner of Crager Hills Farm in Milledgeville.
Event coordinator Richelle Hinson said Crager is providing the micro minis again this year but gave no more than a hint about the added characters.
The purpose of the Nativity has always been to bring to life the miracle of Jesus’ birth, and the annual event continues to draw thousands to Gray for the three nights its open.
Hinson has said at least 75 volunteers are needed to put on the Live Nativity every night that includes traffic control, meals, and childcare, which is in addition to the actors in the scenes.
Getting it all together is not an easy process with preparation for the event beginning in August. The buildings for the scenes are constructed the weekend before the Nativity.
Members of Gray United Church started the Live Nativity more than 20 years ago to remind the community of the true meaning of Christmas. Volunteers construct a 120-foot wall at the front of the city of Bethlehem to add to the realism of the experience.
The scenes start at an entry gate to see Caesar Augustus issuing a decree that “all the world should be taxed.” The journey takes spectators through scenes of Bethlehem as it would have looked during the time of Jesus’ birth.
In addition to the Christmas story, two scenes are included in the live nativity that are not normally associated with Christmas. The scenes of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection were added in 2005.
More information about the Live Nativity’s daily schedule will be posted on the Gray Methodist Church Facebook page.
