True Christmas meaning thrives at Dec. 9 Nativity Walk
For centuries the nativity scene has been something that has tied together the birth of Jesus with the true meaning of Christmas. The upcoming Millersburg Presbyterian Church will present its Nativity Walk and Soup Supper on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 4-7 p.m. and provide an opportunity for visitors to view many nativity scenes that will be on display.
The star.
The manger.
The animals.
The angels, wise men and shepherds.
Mary and Joseph.
Baby Jesus.
For many people those central figures define the humble beginning of the Savior of mankind, Jesus, who was born in a lowly stable that signifies the arrival of a king, yet a king who would come to the world as a servant rather than hailed royalty.
The nativity scene has long been something many people view as the true meaning of Christmas, and its rich and storied history is one of the all-time favorite Bible stories that can stir emotions and elicit joy as people gaze upon their own personal favorite nativity scene.
Coming this Christmas season will be a chance for the public to view a lot of these special nativities under one roof.
The Millersburg Presbyterian Church will present its third annual Nativity Walk and Soup Supper on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 4-7 p.m.
The public is invited to view nativity scenes from all around the world, with the collections coming from not only the church congregation, but also from community members who have added their favorite nativity sets to the collection.
“It’s a really neat and moving experience,” said Molli Wile-Money, who is helping to coordinate the event. “We have invited several churches to get involved, and we will have some unique nativities from around the world. We have some from the Middle East, from Mexico and all over the United States. It’s a real cross section of how different cultures view the nativity scene. The nativity has become a very special part of the lives of many people, and it is the focus of the Christmas story. Seeing all of these nativities together is really something that is inspirational and moving.”
There will be live music in the sanctuary, with the nativities on display in a room connected to the main sanctuary, and Wile-Money said the Christmas nativity continues to be one of the most memorable scenes from the biblical Christmas story.
“The sanctuary is always beautifully lit, and with the quiet live music, it is a great place to sit and visit and soak in the atmosphere,” Wile-Money said. “It’s designed so people can go through the church and experience something different at each place, and everything is decorated for Christmas and it’s all very serene.”
The nativity room also will feature a large Christmas tree that will include numerous nativity ornaments. Wile-Money said there will be plush nativity sets the kids can play with.
While the nativities are the focal point, there also will be the soup supper downstairs. There is no cost for the soup supper, although there will be a freewill donation basket for those who would like to give.
As another addition the event will raffle off a special nativity set. All of the proceeds will go into the church’s local ministry fund.
If someone has a special nativity scene they would like to place in the event, they may do so by bringing it to the church. Wile-Money simply asks they write down on an index card their names and why that particular nativity scene is so special to them. Those wishing to add a nativity to the event can call the church at 330-674-1566 and leave a message. Someone from the church will get back with them.
All of the nativities will remain set up the following Sunday for the church members to view and for anyone who couldn’t come to the event.
The Millersburg Presbyterian Church is located at 90 S. Clay St. in Millersburg.