Families stepped away from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to experience the true meaning of Christmas at a living nativity presentation held on Dec. 14 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Baldwin, directed by Oceanside native Betsy Transom.
Now in its 29th year, the annual living nativity continued a cherished holiday tradition for families across the community. The production offered a kid-friendly retelling of the Christmas story, blending narration, music and live performance into a 40-minute presentation that included a pre-show sing-along designed especially for children.
Theatre-quality storytelling was brought to life through a narrated soundtrack, angel dancers and costumed actors portraying the nativity, alongside live stable animals. Children were given the opportunity to sit in the front row for an up-close experience, and between shows, they were invited to meet and pet the animals, an interactive element that remained a highlight for young audiences.
Admission was free, and performances were held indoors at 3, 4 and 5 p.m., allowing families to attend regardless of weather conditions.
Transom directed the production; she has led the presentation since 2021 and helped preserve its long-standing tradition.
“It’s an honor to be able to carry on this tradition,” Transom said.
With its welcoming atmosphere, family-friendly format and focus on faith and community, the living nativity once again provided a meaningful holiday experience for audiences of all ages.
