After months of preparation, members and friends of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Belfast, Northern Ireland were privileged to enjoy a 'Festival of Nativities' which took place at Holywood Road, Belfast, from 28 to 30 November. Visitors were able to feel the spirit of Christmas as they visited various rooms, which included Christmas crafts for the children, costumes to dress up as part of the nativity scene, storytelling and much, much more. The central attraction was the beautiful array of nativity scene displays, arranged around a picturesque stable, where family photographs were taken for the enjoyment of many.
- The Festival of Nativities held at the Belfast Stake Centre
- The Festival of Nativities held at the Belfast Stake Centre
- The nativity scene at the Festival of Nativities at the Belfast Stake Centre
- The foyer of the Belfast Stake Centre at the Festival of Nativities weekend
| Temple Square is always beautiful in the springtime. Gardeners work to prepare the ground for General Conference. © 2012 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. | 1 / 2 |
Christmas centred presentations were also available for viewing, as well as beautiful choir renditions delivered by youth, adults and missionaries from the Church.
Liesl Willis, president of the women’s organisation, Relief Society, who was the inspiration for the event and lead organiser stated, "After a huge contribution from a large number of people, we are really pleased that so many were able to enjoy the event and feel a little closer to Christ this Christmas".
Local Church leader James McCrudden, of the Belfast area, commented, "The event has been a great success. When so many individuals and families face life's challenges, it is wonderful that those attending have had their spirits lifted, as they were reminded of the real reason for Christmas, our Saviour Jesus Christ".
This was the first 'Festival of Nativities', with the intention to run a similar event in November 2014 to welcome in the Christmas season.