Nativity in the State Capitol
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Carols and hymns and the light of the Word Made Flesh radiated for two hours in the Missouri State Capitol during this year’s Nativity at the Capitol event, held on Dec. 12 in the Capitol Rotunda.
The Columbia 40 Days for Life cosponsored the event, which included the prominent display of a large-scale Nativity scene.
“It was an afternoon celebrating the real ‘reason for the Season,’” stated Kathy Forck, coordinator for Columbia 40 Days for Life.
It included prayer and Scripture reading by Missouri residents, and vocal and instrumental music performed by students from eight local schools, including: Blair Oaks and St. Stanislaus schools in Wardsville; Our Lady of the Snows School in Mary’s Home; St. Francis Xavier School in Taos; Immaculate Conception School, St. Peter Interparish School, St. Joseph Cathedral School, and Helias Catholic High Schools, all in Jefferson City.
Pianist Annie Skelton, flutist Ada Skelton and vocalist Eva Jones provided additional music.
Rev. Greg White, former Cole County sheriff, served as moderator and master of ceremonies.
Judy Bax of the Missouri Nativity Scene Committee organized the event and provided the Nativity scene for the display.
Since the display is privately funded and sponsored without any government aid or endorsement, it is fully protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
“We are very pleased to be exercising our First Amendment rights by expressing our religious faith in public,” said Mrs. Bax. “It is an honor to celebrate Christmas with a nativity scene in the Missouri State Capitol.”
