200 ways to see the nativity

People can see how artists worldwide envision Jesus’ birth during the annual “Display of Mangers,” Saturday, Dec. 5 at Concordia Lutheran Church. Over 200 nativities will be on display from such countries as Israel, Germany, Guatemala and Italy.

People can see how artists worldwide envision Jesus’ birth during the annual “Display of Mangers,” Saturday, Dec. 5 at Concordia Lutheran Church.

Over 200 nativities will be on display from such countries as Israel, Germany, Guatemala and Italy.

The event is a labor of love for church members who charge no admission. This year, they will also give away a free nativity containing figurines about 10-inches tall.

From the elegant to eccentric, the collection of crèches are sculpted in materials ranging from crystal to plastic. The nativity scenes will be accompanied by harp music from musician Kathy Fleck.

That same day, the church will also hold a “Cookie Walk” in which people can fill buckets with homemade cookies. The proceeds will help local needy families.

Church members and others set up their own nativities last Friday, and the Dec. 5 event will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. They also offer a coloring contest for all ages and have coffee and cider available.

Christmas is close to the hearts of the organizers, and they hope the special exhibit will inspire visitors.

“We want to put the Christ back in Christmas,” church secretary Dawn Cox said.