Drive-thru live nativity brings Jesus’ story to life at Coshocton Christian Tabernacle

Take a journey through the life of Jesus at the annual live nativity drive-thru Friday and Saturday, Dec. 5-6 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Coshocton Christian Tabernacle.

“There are 13 stations starting with the market and ending at the tomb,” said Kristi Schonauer, who coordinates the annual event. “The displays show us a glimpse into the life of Jesus, from him helping in the carpenter shop, teaching in the temple and walking on the water.”

It takes at least 130 people to make the live nativity happen.

“Behind the scenes the ladies provide food for all those participating,” Schonauer, said. “We have been blessed with Beloved Ministries for helping on Friday with that task as well as participating in some of the scenes. Christy Grudier and Stacie Rice take over on Saturday, making sure a hot meal is provided for all of us. The Coshocton Christian School also participates. All the costume changing also goes on behind the scenes.”

Rice is glad she and her family can help with the live nativity.

“It’s so awesome to be able to be a part of it,” Rice said. “It gives us all such great joy to help paint the picture of the Christmas story for all to see. You can witness firsthand the community, be reminded of the reason we celebrate, and it fills so many with joy.”

Mindy Yoder said her family participates every year because they enjoy sharing the Christmas story with the community.

“It’s a family event,” she said. “We take care of the animals before, during and after. Our family enjoys spending time together with each other and our church family. It’s truly an amazing event, and we’re grateful to be a part of it.”

Amanda Hurley said as a child, driving through the live nativity was a part of her family’s Christmas traditions, and it became one she shared with her own children.

“With my own children, we would put on Christmas PJs, grab some hot chocolate and drive through the live nativity together,” she said. “As special as those traditions are, being a part of the live nativity now means so much more. These days we bundle up in layers and head to the church for a night with our friends and church family. We’re offered an amazing meal and then dressed by the finest stagehands, who always make sure we have every costume accessory placed properly.

"We make our way outside and play our parts. Not only do we get to make memories with our friends and church family, but we also can share Christmas memories with the community by telling the story of Jesus’ life. We are thankful for our new Christmas tradition.”

For many the live nativity brings in the start of the Christmas season.

“I feel that families have made this a yearly tradition,” Schonauer said. “This is The Tabernacle’s gift to the community, and what better gift to give the community than the gift of Jesus?”

The Coshocton Christian Tabernacle is located at 48245 STE A Genesis Drive in Coshocton.

“I have an amazing team of people helping me with the live nativity,” Schonauer said. “I couldn’t do it without them and the entire church.”