Churches, Business Team Up For 'New' Nativity At Vernon Town Hall

VERNON, CT — A new version of a Vernon Christmas tradition — the Nativity scene — came to Central Park in front of town hall Friday morning, thanks to a team effort between local churches and an area business.

The figures are the same, yes, but a new stable has replaced one that seemed as old as the original some 2,000 years ago.

"We knew for years that we had to replace it," said Brian Flint of the Cornerstone Foundation, which takes out the permit to display the Nativity scene on the lawn on behalf of a group of area churches. "It was old and the wood wasn't very good anymore. We're proud of all the work that went into getting a new one."

Flint said the church group approached Chris Skinner at The Barnyard in Ellington one a designed was drawn up. The business then offered to do it at no charge.

Weather and a few family matters delayed its placement for about a week, but on Monday, there it was.

"We can't thank the Barnyard enough," Flint said. "The figures of Jesus, Mary and Joseph and an angel are the same, but the stable portion is brand new."

To commemorate the new Nativity scene and to promote homelessness awareness, Cornerstone is scheduled to host a community gathering in the park on Dec. 21, beginning at 4:30 p.m. A reception with hot chocolate and goodies will follow at The Oasis at Union Church at 3 Elm St.

Cornerstone will also be hosting a local segment of the National Homeless Persons Remembrance Ceremony. The date was chosen because it is the longest night of the year and "represents the struggles of the unsheltered,' Flint said.

Members of the community will read a list of homeless persons who have passed this year in the Greater Hartford area.

"We encourage the entire community to join us as we remember those who many have been forgotten," Flint said.

Cornerstone Executive Director, Sharon Redfern said that no person "should have to die" for lack of housing.

"We hope that by remembering those who have passed, we can encourage people to be aware of the increasing numbers of unsheltered people in Connecticut," she added. "It is a solvable problem if we would all work together to push for funding to create innovative housing options, improve mental health services, and increase support services for the homeless population."

The event will conclude with caroling.

"All are welcome to sing along as we usher hope into the holiday season and the new year," Flint said.
Cornerstone’s Deputy Director, Bryan Flint shares, “Cornerstone is blessed to be able to help continue the traditions to bring our community together.”