North Aurora residents Charlie Popplewell, from left, Leah Popplewell, Melanie Popplewell, Julie Popplewell and Michael Popplewell pose at United Methodist Church of Geneva's live nativity performance Sunday, Dec. 6. The manger scene, featuring four local families in period costumes, was on a Christmas Story Caravan that included Batavia UMC and Baker Memorial UMC in St. Charles. (Al Benson photo)

A live nativity scene at United Methodist Church of Geneva highlighted a drive-by Christmas Story Caravan that included Batavia, Geneva and St. Charles UMC churches Sunday, Dec. 6.

The public was invited and admission was free. Visitors were invited to drive from church to church, experiencing the story of Christmas with an outdoor activity and freewill mission collection at each location.

Participating churches were Batavia UMC, Geneva UMC and Baker Memorial UMC in St. Charles. Each church practiced COVID-19 safety protocols that included 6 ft. social distancing and mask wearing.

At Batavia UMC, an angel, mural and music reflected the theme “Rejoice with Hope.” Mittens, gloves, hats, scarves and leggings were collected for local charities. 

At UMC of Geneva, a live nativity scene on the front lawn featured a llama, donkey, goats and sheep from Friendly Farms petting zoo in DeKalb. Church communications director Becky Nicol narrated the Christmas story. The manger scene featured four local families in period costumes.

The presentation's theme was “Receive God’s Love.” Donations were accepted for Heifer International, a nonprofit that works in 21 countries to end hunger and poverty by providing livestock, training and related services to small-scale farmers. 

Handouts included bags of zoo animal crackers and a calendar of Christmas eve and Christmas day online worship services.

At Baker Memorial UMC, a prayer tree, luminarias and music were offered on the theme “Share the Light.” Monetary donations were accepted to support Clara Biswas, a UMC missionary who serves Cambodian street children and their families.