Courtesy photo The three wise men are shown at last year’s living nativity scene. The living nativity returns this year on Dec. 22.

ESCANABA — The little town of Bethlehem is coming to Escanaba. On Wednesday, December 22 from 7 to 8 p.m. Central, First, and Bark River United Methodist Churches will host their 2nd Annual Drive-Thru Living Nativity. As carols fill the air, community members will be able to drive through the grounds of Central UMC to see scenes of the Christmas story with live actors bringing the story to life.

Last year’s inaugural event came about when the pandemic prompted the three local churches to think creatively about their Christmas celebrations.

“We saw the challenges of the pandemic as an opportunity to think outside the box, and to use the talents and gifts in our congregations in a new way to bless our community,” said Rev. Elise Low Edwardson, pastor at Central. Last year’s event drew hundreds of cars to take in the Christmas story, and the churches have been hard at work preparing for this year’s event.

Rev. Ryan Low Edwardson, pastor of Escanaba First and Bark River UMCs, said his favorite part of the event is the atmosphere it creates.

“The bells ringing, the snow falling, the community gathered around the Christmas story — it all makes for a really special evening. We hope you’ll make it part of your Christmas season.”

All are invited to this year’s Drive-Thru Living Nativity, which will be held Wednesday, December 22 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Central United Methodist Church, 322 S. Lincoln Rd. in Escanaba. Canned good donations will be accepted to support the Salvation Army food pantry.