Gig Harbor Will Have Private Christian Nativity Scene Downtown

GIG HARBOR, WA - A private group is trying to raise $2,000 to have a Christian nativity on display in downtown Gig Harbor. Gary Wiens, president of Burning Heart Ministries, is spearheading the effort and has so far raised about $1,300.

In 2016, the Freedom From Religion Foundation warned Gig Harbor that it might sue if the city did not remove a nativity at Donkey Creek Park. That sparked a debate in City Hall about how to handle the issue. That process ended in August with the City Council deciding not to allow any display - either religious or secular - beneath the city's Christmas tree.

The 2017 Gig Harbor nativity will be inside a private building. The "Gig Harbor Christmas Nativity and Reception Center" could open as soon as Dec. 2. Wiens is holding a service at the reception center, 3177 Harborview Drive, Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

The city's tree lighting begins Saturday at 5 p.m. at Skansie Park, which is next to the nativity reception center.

Image via GoFundMe