Festival of the Nativity

I had the opportunity to experience a Festival of the Nativity put on by my Stake this past weekend. I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. For those of you who are not familiar with the term 'Stake'; a Stake is a regional grouping of individual congregations, which our church calls Wards. We have 11 Wards in our Stake.

The nativity displays were donated by church members for the purpose of the festival. Many church members serve missions all over the world and purchase Nativity displays while visiting different countries.  I have posted some pictures below so you can see some of the beautiful nativity scenes that were on display.

The first picture was what greeted us as we walked into the building.

I think the ones I liked the best were the very large displays...

and the very tiny ones.

In addition, there was a room full of Nativity displays tailored to children...

and a room that displayed paintings and sculptures that depicted the life of Jesus Christ.

Just a few more pictures...

While people were viewing the displays, other church members were singing beautiful Christmas carols.  We had a lovely time!

Visitors are always welcomed at any Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. You are welcome to walk in at any time or you can go to this website, locate the church nearest you (anywhere in the world!) and call the local phone number. Someone will be happy to meet you there (or pick you up at your house) so you don't have to go to church alone. What you will find at our church are people filled with love. Love for our Heavenly Father, his son Jesus Christ, and each other.

I hope you take some time out this holiday season to enjoy the festivities!