Grace United youth hold live nativity scene

By PAMELA GRANT

Cove Leader-Press

“Honestly, it’s really exciting. I’ve only ever been animals,” said Nolan Johnson (11) about playing Joseph for his church’s live nativity event. “Being able to have a big role is really exciting for me…It’s an opportunity to just spread the word of God.”

Johnson said that a lot of good can come from their live nativity as a lot of people driving by or walking by will stop and ask them about what they are doing. He said that he likes getting to have those conversations. Johnson wasn’t the only one excited for spreading what he called the true meaning of Christmas. Grace United Methodist Church’s (GUMC) Youth Group performed in a live nativity to celebrate the season Sunday evening from 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.

Julianne Carpenter (12) also performed in the live nativity. She said that she’d previously played a star and then an angel, so she was really excited to be playing Mary this year. Carpenter said that she hopes that their nativity event will put smiles on the faces of those driving by.

Youth director Doreen Vasseur said that the church has been doing a live nativity event for over 20 years but had to stop in 2020 because of Covid and again in 2021 because of damage done to the church from the storm. Vasseur and other church members were excited for its return.

“It puts people in the mood of what Christmas really is,” said Vasseur. “Jesus is the reason for the season.”

The children posed and talked as people walked and drove by. They also posed for pictures with any that wanted to have their picture taken.

“It’s their way of giving back,” said Vasseur.

Yoland Stewart said that she brought her daughter Emily Stewart (5) to show her about what Christmas really is all about.

“Christmas is about gifts, and Santa, and Jesus!,” said Emily with enthusiasm. Emily was excited to have her picture taken with the nativity scene. She said that she really liked the angels.

“I love it,” said Stewart. “I think everyone should get a chance to know the true meaning of Christmas.”