By Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints - Red Deer.

Live Nativity Pageant in Red Deer

Dec 19, 2018 | 10:01 AM

For almost four decades, there has been a live nativity pageant in Red Deer and every year at least one member of the Guenther family has been a part of it.

This year, Ben and Ashley Guenther will be taking on a big role by playing the part of Joseph and Mary for an evening of performances.

Their 15-year-old son Parker and 12-year-old daughter Hadley will also have parts in the outdoor pageant.

“Participating in the pageant has become part of our Christmas tradition,” explains Ben. “It’s something I did with my parents and now I’m doing it with my children. It sets the tone for us going into Christmas by reminding us what the season is really about.”

Putting on the pageant and displaying the 300 nativity sets takes hours of work by many individuals, but for most participants the gift of time has its own rewards.

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“I had the part of Mary for the first time last year and I was really overcome with an appreciation for all that she did,” adds Ashley Guenther. “It’s a special experience to be a part of the pageant.”

Watching the show is also a Christmas tradition for many area residents.

The play features a 28-member cast of shepherds, angels, kings, and other characters as well as Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus.

There will also be a stable with live animals.

In addition, the birth of Christ as told in the Book of Luke will be depicted through music, narration and acting.

Nightly performances will take place at 7:00, 7:30 and 8:00 p.m.

The outdoor play takes about 20-minutes in total and is a small reminder during a hectic season that a gift given more than 2,000 years ago still matters today.

There will also be an indoor crèche display featuring approximately 300 tiny nativity sets from around the world.

Cookies and hot chocolate will be served indoors.

All are welcome.

This event is a Christmas gift to the community from local members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Red Deer.