Live nativity scene

On Dec. 11, Bethel Baptist Church will be transforming Leota into Bethlehem with a live nativity scene to collect canned goods for the local clearing house, as well as the Edna Martin Christian Center in Indianapolis.

The drive-thru nativity scene will be active Dec. 11, from 6 to 9 p.m. Visitors will see live animals, a marketplace, Bethlehem townspeople, shepherds and a stable with Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus. Hundreds of donated empty milk jugs have been recycled into lanterns that will light up roads leading to the “town,” all made by Bethel’s youth group. Costumes have been contributed by Little York Christian Church and live animals are from local farms.

As the event is free, Bethel encourages visitors to bring non-perishable foods, like canned goods, that will be distributed evenly between the clearinghouse and Edna Martin Christian Center. Each visiting vehicle will receive a complimentary ornament, and Bethel hopes that this event will continue to bring the community together to engage in the true meaning of Christmas while helping those in need.

The event will take place at the crossroads at the Covered Bridge in Leota. For more information, contact Melinda Lowry at mclbsl@ hotmail.com