Drive-Thru Nativity With Animals Planned At Vienna Church

VIENNA, VA —A Vienna church is adjusting one of its Christmas traditions to make it safe for families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Holy Comforter Episcopal Church invites families to its Drive-Thru Live Nativity on Saturday, Dec. 19 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The free event features costumed church volunteers and live animals spread throughout the church parking lot, aiming to recreate the sights and sounds of the birth of Jesus.

The church decided on the drive-thru event at a staff meeting, where discussions were happening about how the holidays would be different this year. The church had canceled traditional in-person activities like Advent wreath making and gingerbread house making.

"We shifted gears at our staff meeting and asked ourselves what we could do differently,” said Jon Strand, rector of Holy Comforter Episcopal Church. "We traditionally tell the story of the nativity during our Christmas Eve services with children dressed for the parts. Since it’s not safe to have a packed church this year, we are taking the event outside in different set up. The live drive thru nativity allows all ages to be safe in their vehicles and celebrate the glory of Christ’s birth."

The drive-thru event tells the story of Christmas through six scenes, beginning with the angel visiting Mary to tell her she will soon be with child. It ends with the nativity scene with Jesus in a manger, Mary, Joseph, shepherds, angels, the three wise men and live animals.

Church staff and members were eager to volunteer their time and talents through acting, creating, Biblical scenes and directing traffic. The church is considering making the event an annual holiday tradition. Donations are welcome.

Aside from this event, Holy Comforter is planning a pre-recorded Christmas worship service on Christmas Eve, as well as outdoor worship with registration, masks and social distancing.

The church is located at 543 Beulah Road, Vienna. For more information, visit www.holycomforter.com.