Animal enhance nativity experience in Island Lake

For many years, Patti Christensen went to Elk Grove Village during the holidays to see the re-enactment of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem.

Three years ago, the nurse at Matthews Middle School in Island Lake decided to try something closer to home.

"I thought it would be interesting and fun to bring it to our church," the Port Barrington resident said.

On Saturday, Dec. 12, the third annual Live Nativity Walk will be held at 3 and 5 p.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church, 25225 W. Ivanhoe Road, Wauconda.

"Afterward is hot cocoa and cookies and kids can go in the courtyard and pet the animals," Christensen said. An alpaca, donkey, sheep and goat will add to the realism.

The narrated event, which features live animals has become a hit for the holidays. More than 300 attended that first year and about 250 braved a rain-soaked afternoon last year.

While hoping for better weather this year, Christensen also has made some tweaks she hopes will add to the experience.

"We added some more younger kids," she said. A cherub choir dressed as different animals also will increase youth participation.

"It grows every year. It's really pretty neat," said Steve Snow, church treasurer.

The animals have become a proven hit.

"It kind of makes it magical," Christensen said. "Kids seem to find the animals fascinating. Even the adults every year say, 'Can we go out and see the animals?'"

About 30 to 35 kids and adults participate in the nativity walk.

There is no charge but donations are welcomed.

"It's a freewill offering. The idea was to expose people to the story. It's not about gathering money," she said. "The hot chocolate and cocoa are there for everybody to enjoy as well as the story."

Christensen emphasized that the walk may have been her idea but it is a group effort to present the complete performance.

"It's like being there," she said. "It's not like reading a book."