Community of Hope Church shares glad tidings

The Christian story of Jesus’ birth was brought to life Saturday evening during Community of Hope Church’s annual Living Nativity event.

Complete with real animals and church members who played angels, shepherds, wise men and Jesus’ family, the event, which has turned into a Maricopa tradition, was presented amid chilly, but good weather conditions.

The event got rained out last year.

“I know people missed it last year,” said church pastor Rusty Akers.

Akers said one of the challenges to putting on the annual event is finding a baby to play Jesus.

Camden Berry, who was born on Nov. 1, fit the role perfectly. His parents, church members Chris and Aryka Berry, played the parts of Joseph and Mary – the stepfather and mother of Jesus.

Aryka said she was asked about having her new child play the part of Jesus as soon as everybody knew her due date. The married couple made sure Camden was fed and had used the restroom prior to the three hour event – a live show that was replayed outdoors from 5 to 8 p.m.

The event took place at Community of Hope Church, 18700 N. Porter Road. The first Living Nativity took place in 2004.

Click on the View Gallery to see pictures of this year’s Living Nativity.