DES LACS, NORTH DAKOTA AND OLIVET, SOUTH DAKOTA -- Small town churches tell the Christmas story in a big way.  Des Lacs and Olivet United Methodist Churches have a weekly workship under 50 people but, these churches have told the Christmas story to hundreds in their respective communities.

Photo:  Live Nativigty "Drive-In", courtesy of Olivet United Methodist Church.

Christmas in the Barn at Des Lacs ten years running

Donkeys and sheep, goats and flying angels, hot cider and cowboys -- it all has been a part of "Christmas in the Barn" for ten years! Offered by the Des Lacs United Methodist Church located  in the upper Souris River Valley in North Dakota, it is estimated that over 5,000 persons have gathered in the barn over the last ten years to hear the Christmas story (western style, of course!)

Like any good production, it takes a village to put the event on.  This year, 40 members, 40 parking attendants, narrators and outside “wizards”,  35 children and their leaders  and four Dakota Rose band members and one pastor were needed to share the story in below zero temperatures.  “Pretty amazing” was the final word from Director Karen Rath.  Besides great music, the highlight of the night for most visitors is the flying angel—who rises many feet over the heads of musicians and guests to deliver the good news of Christmas!

"Drive-In" Living Nativity at Olivet

The Olivet United Methodist Church performed a Living Nativity on Friday, December 12 and Sunday, December 14.  There were three performances each evening and a cookie walk were conducted in the church throughout each evening.

The performances were held “drive-in” style with several vehicles and some folks braving the cold to stand outside for all performances.  The idea came from the youth group at Olivet UMC.   The youth made up most of the cast with some support from several adults taking parts.  

Friday night's performance was highlighted by the “great escape” when a sheep bolted to the east and a pony bolted west at the close of the second performance. All of the animals returned safely to be in the last show of the night.

Pastor Tom Petersen noted, “What an enjoyable evening for all, with chili for the human performers afterwards.”