Two area churches celebrate season with tradition
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Two area churches will carry on the live nativity tradition this year.
"So many things have already been canceled, but this is the true meaning of Christmas," said Myla Mitchem, director of youth at Tunnel United Methodist Church. "Come and drive through and don't worry about being contaminated in any way. We do it no matter the weather, unless it's icy."
The youth, from third through 12th grades, will portray the scene of Jesus' birth, from 6 to 7 p.m. Saturday at the lower parking lot of the church, which is five miles west of Marietta at Ohio 550 and Coffman Road.
This is the seventh year for the event.
"Each year is different, but this year, I think we have 12 (kids participating)," Mitchem said. "They are in full costume with live animals like llamas, goats, sheep and calves."
She said most of the kids are from the church's youth groups, which haven't been able to meet because of COVID.
"We can't go Christmas caroling this year as usual," Mitchem said. "There are so many things people can't do, but people can stay in the car and not worry about being exposed."
She noted the kids will be staying six feet from car windows and will wear mics and face shields.
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Every other year since 1961, Newport United Methodist Church has provided residents a Biblical vision of Jesus' birth as described in the Book of Luke.
Tammie Rinard, church member, said the church's youth group portrays the Biblical figures, while adults narrate the story and sing carols.
The performance will last about 15 minutes and is held every half hour starting at 6 p.m. Dec. 20. The last performance will start at 7:30 p.m.
"It's right in front of the church in the parking lot," Rinard said. "People can walk around and into the scene. Most people will probably watch it from their cars."
She said there will be live animals, including donkeys, cows and sheep, with Mary riding a donkey at the scene.
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A third live nativity, which is usually held every Christmas at Sweetapple Farm, will not be held this year. Mona Barrett, owner of Sweetapple, posted on her Facebook page "For the safety of our customers, friends and family, Sweetapple Farm Market will not be having the annual Live Nativity this Christmas season. We appreciate your continued support of our family farm! Merry Christmas!"
Michele Newbanks can be reached at mnewbanks@mariettatimes.com.