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Area Church Brings Christmas Story To Life

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By SHERRI LONON IN THE LOOP

The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 10, 2008

The ox and lamb won't keep time, but Mary will arrive by donkey, and sheep and a llama will be on hand to bear witness as Atonement Lutheran Church lifts the curtain on its live nativity scene.

Set for Dec. 13 at 7 p.m., the second annual event is the church's way of reminding the community and its own congregants the reason for the season, said Scott Lindner, pastor of the 29617 State Road 54 church.

"This is a really low key, grassroots (production)," said Lindner. "It's a great way to get everybody in the church involved in evangelism."

Last year's event was inspired by churches Lindner was a part of in Michigan. He said live nativity scenes were very popular up north and he wanted to bring the tradition to Wesley Chapel.

To make sure the biblical Christmas story is made available to as many people as possible, Atonement is hosting the second annual event at no cost to spectators. This, Lindner said, fits in well with the church's overall feel.

"This is an old-fashion, grassroots church," he said.

The production will take place in the back of the church, Lindner said. That setting is ideal with its woodsy, outdoor feel. This year's event will feature live animals, an enhanced sound and lighting system and plenty of parishioners, young and old, playing roles from the birth of Jesus. Traditional Christmas carols will also be sung.

Emily Jamison, 13, is playing the role of Mary.

"I'm a little nervous," she said of the upcoming play.

Last year she participated as an angel and this year's promotion puts her in the spotlight in a big way. While she admits to some butterflies in her stomach, she said it was an honor to be selected to portray Mary.

"It's a real good play," she said.

For more information, call the church office at (813) 973-2211.

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