Concordia's live Nativity draws hundreds in Jefferson Township

Concordia Lutheran Ministries hosted its 10th annual live Nativity program Sunday at its Haven II building on Marwood Road in Jefferson Township.

Amber Walchesky of the Cabot section on Winfield, who attended the event with her husband, Jarod, and two daughters, Maylee, 3, and Braelynn, 1, said they were there to “celebrate the real reason for Christmas.”

In the middle of the program, as the Magi came from the east, members of the crowd gasped as they saw Clancy the camel walking down the hillside.

“Woah, he’s huge,” one man said.

Arnie Greer of Forest Hills was watching the program with his son, Adam, 11, for the third year in a row. They were at the facility visiting Greer’s father-in-law.

“This is becoming our new tradition,” Greer said. “They do such a good job bringing forth a simple message. It’s really unique. I like the way they present it, and the animals are amazing to see.”

The animals, including Clancy, a donkey, goats and sheep, were provided by Barnyard Petting Zoo.

Codey Smith, the staffing manager at the facility, portrayed Joseph in the program.

“It sounded like a fun thing to do for the community,” he said. “I love to see everyone come together and have a good time. It’s just something good.”

Each year, between 300 and 600 people stop by to watch the 15-minute program that recounts the story of the birth of Jesus.

Frank Skrip, the director of public relations for Concordia, said that about 30 to 40 people are involved in the planning each year, including residents and staff. And while the event occurs at the Concordia at Cabot facility in Jefferson Township, it is livestreamed to Concordia’s other locations.

This year’s program included a vocal performance from St. Luke Lutheran School, hot chocolate, cookies and pictures with Santa.