Drive-Thru Live Nativity Proves Popular, Supports SHARE Of McLean

MCLEAN, VA — The second annual McLean Nativity held on Dec. 10 and 11 proved to be popular, attracting likely thousands of attendees and plentiful donations for SHARE of McLean.

The McLean Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a group of eight congregations in Arlington, McLean and Falls Church, hosted the drive-thru nativity over two nights in December. The leadership said 600 vehicles came through over the two nights, with an estimated 2,000 attendees in all.

"As with last year, we hoped this event would bring joy and hope to the community, which is still being affected by the pandemic," said Jim Stansel of Arlington, president of the McLean Stake. "The drive through provided a safe environment to allow people to celebrate the life of Jesus Christ together while also coming together to provide Christian service."

The event was held in the parking lot of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel at Great Falls Street and Kirby Road. The nativity displays included a manger scene and Bethlehem scenery and marketplace; shepherds, angels, and wise men in various areas; live sheep, goats, donkeys, miniature horses, chickens, and rabbits; and over 20,000 Christmas lights. Attendees could listen to a podcast with narration on their radio.

The drive-thru nativity was also a donation drive for SHARE of McLean, a nonprofit providing a food pantry and other services to people in need.

"The community was exceptionally generous in donating food and other items to help the needy this year," said Christy Lucia, president of the women’s Relief Society. "Our neighbors filled a semi-truck from back to front for SHARE of McLean, a local food bank operated by McLean Baptist Church. They also filled an SUV with similar items for the benefit of Komak Foundation, which serves the needs of Afghan refugees in Northern Virginia."