Van Orsdel Live Nativity set for Saturday

Van Orsdel United Methodist Church will be putting on its annual Live Nativity event for the community Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m.

The Live Nativity is a re-enactment of the Biblical event of the birth of Jesus Christ. The event has been a long-standing tradition in Havre, each year the church puts on the event free to the community, sometimes braving cold and inclement weather conditions.

The event includes actors and actresses who will be portraying the parts of Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, an angel and the three wise men as well as live animals, including a donkey, sheep and a miniature horse.

“My favorite part is watching the people who stop and watching their expressions,” Van Orsdel United Methodist Church Secretary Edna Gregory said. “It’s such a serene thing, it’s moving and it just makes you stop and realize the true meaning of Christmas.”

She added that the root of Christmas is the birth of Christ and although it is fun and nice to give presents to one another, Christmas is about love and caring and recognizing the holiday.

“It also brings community together,” she said. “Anytime we participate together as a community, it builds the community.”

This year, the Live Nativity will also be in memory of Jerry Lee Davidson. Davidson and his wife, Pam, have been involved with the Live Nativity for a number of years and have loaned a number of animals to the event through the years. Pam Davidson is continuing to be involved with the event and is bringing the animals this year.

Gregory said that she appreciates everyone who participates in the event.

Van Orsdel is also going to be holding its Third Annual Blue Christmas Service Sunday at 7 p.m.

The service is for people who are alone, in mourning, seperated from family, suffering from depression or sadness.

“This service is where while we especially remember our loved ones, we recognize our own ‘other’ losses and or grief, courage, memories of better times and love,” a press release said. “… This is an informal service, open to the community, so come as you are.”