Ministry snapshots -- LIVE NATIVITY IS WILBURTON'S WITNESS

Michael Moore portrays Joseph in the live Nativity scene at Wilburton.

For three days in December, members of Wilburton UMC braved cold weather and temperamental animals to create a live Nativity in the parking lot for the Chamber of Commerce office in the southeastern Oklahoma town.

Donning thermal underwear as well as costumes, children, teens, and adults rotated through the roles, while other volunteers offered treats to passers-by.

"The message of the event was simple," said Pastor April Coates. "Jesus is the reason for the season—no more, no less."

She provided photos to Contact, noting she had promised to share how, "even in the remote parts of our Conference, congregations are seeking faithfully to witness to the Gospel in creative ways."