Deseret News: How live Nativities help usher in the spirit of Christmas in Utah

For two weeks in December, a section of the Lehi rodeo grounds is transformed into a familiar New Testament scene.

Visitors who enter “A Babe is Born” are greeted by a variety of farm animals, actors and a stable with a rock wall backdrop, where Joe and Tori Coccimiglio, dressed to represent Joseph and Mary, watch over baby Jesus in a live Nativity reenactment.

It’s a timeless story with a universal message, Joe Coccimiglio said.

“The story of Christ’s birth is one of joy and being a family, experiencing real love,” he said. “Regardless of your faith, I think everyone can experience and enjoy that.”

The live Nativity in Lehi is one of many along Utah’s Wasatch Front this month that are helping to usher in the spirit of Christmas.

Pope Francis recently voiced his support for Nativity scenes as “simple and admirable” signs of Christian faith. The leader of the global Catholic Church signed an apostolic letter encouraging the placement of Nativity scenes in workplaces, schools and town squares, according to the Associated Press.

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