Exhibit of 300 Nativity Scenes

Saturday, November 29 marked the ribbon cutting and opening of a collection of nativity scenes from around the world. “Come Let Us Adore Him – From Every Angle” is the title of this year’s exhibit at St. Nicholas Church in Barberton.

This collection of over 300 scenes is the personal treasure of parishioner Pat Mitchell, and has been 26 years in the making. Pat explains that this collection is a gathering of nativities that she has found herself, as well as others that have been given to her.

A selection of Christmas songs by the church choir under the direction of Rita Benya, started the day’s activities. Following a group singing of “O Come All ye Fatithful”, and “Joy to the World”, our special guest, Bishop John, performed the rtibbon cutting, officially opening the exhibit. Shortly after the opening, Bishop John sat for a question and answer session, attended by over 40 people.

The questions asked, provided an excellent opportunity for the bishop to go into detail on many aspects of the Pastoral Plan resulting from the year of our Eparchial Assembly. One of the important points addressed by Bishop John, was that for the success of our endeavor, it is necessary for each member, of each parish of our eparchy, to prayerfully be open to the fulfillment and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Another question led the bishop to speak about inter-parish activity. He related how the pastoral plan would be enhanced on a grass roots level through the development of personal relationships between the peoples of our parishes.

Within the first two weeks of the exhibit, over 600 people have visited the church. St. Nicholas parish is able to evangelize through this exhibit, providing DVDs about our church and activities. Moreover, this wonderful opportunity allows the parish to spread the good news of the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.