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What happens when the Christmas story is no longer something we just think about, but something we step into?

In this episode of the Church Potluck Advent Calendar, Dale is joined by Ginger Binkley, a longtime friend and ministry partner from Mount Tabor United Methodist Church, to reflect on the beauty and purpose of live nativity scenes. Together, they explore why churches continue this centuries-old tradition—one that reaches back to St. Francis of Assisi’s 13th-century vision of bringing the Nativity to life—and how a small, rural congregation has embraced it in a powerful, modern way.

Ginger shares how the idea was born, the surprising ways the project came together, and why the live nativity has become such a meaningful act of faith for both the church and the wider community—from handcrafted sets and donated costumes to a real donkey named Elvis.

This conversation reflects on how live nativities cut through the noise of consumer Christmas, connect generations, and offer a sacred, embodied reminder that Emmanuel—God with us—entered the world not with spectacle, but with humility, stillness, and love.

(Note: Mount Tabor United Methodist's Live Nativity is this Friday and Saturday, Dec. 12-13, from 6-8 pm. You are welcome to drive thru or stop for snacks and beverages. The church address is 2341 Everett Springs Road NE, Armuchee, GA 30105.)

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.