When the Engerman family heard that our SFDS outdoor nativity was “homeless”, they volunteered to build a manger without hesitation. The very next day, John and Johnny were measuring, and the day after that the plans were drawn. By the end of the week it was delivered and assembled, with Madeleine cutting down reeds from her garden to make the roof, setting up the lighting, and adding other touches. It comes apart into 5 sections so that it can be easily stored. The wood, also donated by the Engermans, is salvaged and repurposed. “The hardest part,” said John (a custom home builder) “was to make it look authentically imperfect!” Situated on Highway 50, it will be a beautiful reminder of the reason for the season for our parishioners, as well as for the visitors and residents of our community. “We are so grateful for this project,” said Madeleine. “It’s really helped our family get into the Christmas spirit!” Thank you, Engerman fam, for sharing your time and talents and spreading the true meaning of Christmas! Thank you also to Jim Gottinger and our head custodian, Mike Johnson, for helping with the set up!
