Emporia First Church of the Nazarene will not have a live nativity as part of its holiday festivities.
The church has used the nativity, including buildings volunteers and live animals, for the past seven years. Longtime organizer Everett Weems says it was no longer “sustainable” to maintain the event, which has grown in scope as the congregation ages. Pastor Paul Meinke says it was a difficult decision and indicates it will not return. He also thanked area residents for making the nativity one of their holiday traditions to attend.
Weems says the church is looking at other projects to share with area residents.
