LDS Church Hosts Christmas Celebration, Nativity Displays

The Menifee Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints invites the public to attend its annual Christmas Celebration, which runs Friday through Sunday, Dec. 6-8, at the LDS Stake Center, 29725 Bradley Road.

This is the 12th annual celebration hosted by the church. Last year, more than 3,000 visitors attended over the weekend. The purpose of the event is to unite the community of Menifee and help everyone remember the true meaning of Christmas, said Menifee Stake President Michael Gray.

"As I approach this season every year, I am grateful that my thoughts are directed towards others," Gray said. "In the chaotic times of life that we all face, a well-known scripture comes to mind.

"In John 13:34-35, it is so beautifully written: 'A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.' Is there a more powerful commandment than that this time of year? I have yet to find one."

The centerpiece of the celebration is the display of hundreds of nativity scenes, spread throughout the building. Displays of all varieties and sizes, brought to the celebration by church members and other members of the public, add to the theme of the true meaning of Christmas.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Friday, at 4 p.m. Saturday and 6 p.m. Sunday. The Friday and Saturday events include a concert of Christmas carols by a community orchestra, with narration sharing the story behind the carols. On Sunday at 7 p.m., guests will enjoy a Christmas broadcast of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

The event is free and parking is available.

"May we this time of year seek out those to give them a little light in their life," Gray said. "May we comfort the sad and bring them a little hope. I am thankful for the Savior and for the lessons he taught and the example he set. Most importantly, I hope that I can be a disciple of Christ and love my fellow man just a little bit more this season and at all times."