By Vita Duva
COLTS NECK – The Colts Neck Community Church will host its annual “Living Nativity” Saturday, Dec. 17. The live and inspiring Christmas presentation will primarily take place indoors in the Church’s sanctuary, offering patrons three different showtimes at 5, 5:45 and 6:30 p.m.
The Colts Neck Community Church, which is located in the heart of town at 25 Merchants Way, will also serve hot cocoa and treats at the “Bethlehem Cafe” and offer joyful Christmas carolers inside the church’s Fellowship Hall, as well as outdoor activities which include a petting zoo, train rides and an opportunity for attendees to meet Preston the camel.
The Colts Neck Community Church’s “Living Nativity” is a free event and open to everyone.
“We hope people are reminded of the ‘good news of great joy for all people’ ” when they attend this year’s presentation, said Chris Durkin, Colts Neck Community Church pastor. “We hope they come and are encouraged by the messages, as much as their families have fun in the festivities.”
“Our guests can expect a loving environment where both children and adults can have their faith renewed as we all remember the true reason for the season.”
The Colts Neck Community Church first began its living nativity production nearly 10 years ago. Durkin was discussing with the church secretary at the time the idea of purchasing a large nativity set they could put outside on the front lawn every Christmas when a light bulb went off – instead of nativity statues, why not do a living nativity presentation?
Both Durkin and the rest of the Colts Neck Community Church staff were amazed by the event. Since then, the church has seen approximately 500-700 people gather together every year to see the Christmas story come to life right before their eyes.
“At the Colts Neck Community Church, we are imperfect people who have been transformed by the perfect grace of Jesus Christ,” Durkin said, explaining the church’s mission statement, services and his role as pastor. “We are a loving church family that focuses on the Bible, real-life faith, true hope and making an impact in the community.”
In addition to the living nativity, the church will also host a Christmas Dinner and Documentary from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21. The event includes a Bible study, Christmas dinner and a viewing of the documentary “The Life of Jesus.” Visit the church’s website at coltsneckchurch.com to RSVP in advance.
The Colts Neck Community Church will also offer two Christmas Eve candlelight services, which will take place at 3 and 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24, as well as a Christmas Day service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 25.
The article originally appeared in the December 8 – 14, 2022 print edition of The Two River Times.
