12/02/2020
Responding creatively to pandemic restrictions to bring the seasonal Christmas message of love and hope, Monmouth Worship Center, Marlboro, has developed a living drive-through Nativity spectacular featuring eight elaborate scenes. Features include live animals, an overhead star of Bethlehem, pre-recorded audio, dozens of live actors in period costume, including a baby – all available for free from the safety of visitors’ cars.
“Jesus, the Light of the World” runs Saturday and Sunday, December 12-13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the parking lot at Monmouth Worship Center, 37 Vanderburg Road, Marlboro. (Rain dates are December 19-20.) The event is free, although the church is accepting non-perishable food donations for its community Food Pantry. In addition, the church is offering a gift to the first 50 visitors both nights.
“Christmas is one of the high points of the year for the church and community, especially families. So we wanted to share this message of love and hope with as many people as possible despite the pandemic,” said Founding Pastor Ken Jasko. “Church and community members have come together to create an extraordinary event guaranteed to prepare you for this glorious season.”
Other features include:
- a glowing 6x4-foot Bible replica,
- a cross of glistening lights,
- a variety of animals (in pens) including alpacas and miniature cows, as well as a life-size camel cut-out,
- commercial lighting of each scene,
- a commemorative booklet including the script and sponsorships,
- period-costume Roman soldiers handing out show booklets and audio, and
- carolers singing seasonal favorites.
The drive-through takes about 15 minutes. More than 80 church members have worked since September to develop the event.
The church offers sponsorship opportunities and is accepting donations to defray production costs. To help or for more information, you can visit the church’s website https://bit.ly/Get_Connected2 or page https://bit.ly/3kdciTF. You can also contact the office at 732.332.9600 or [email protected].
