ELWOOD — Three camels, six baby goats, four donkeys, a cow and six sheep helped volunteers recreate the Nativity scene on Sunday at First United Methodist Church in Elwood.

Heidi Elsbury, who helped organize the event, said the live animals helped tell what the church called the real Christmas story about the birth of Christ. “It’s our gift back to the community to show the community the real meaning of Christmas.”

In addition to a live Nativity scene complete with farm animals, volunteers in long robes and a manger on the lawn of the church, First United Methodist also staged a musical program inside and told the Nativity story each hour. Hot chocolate and cookies were offered downstairs while the church parlor displayed over 50 Nativity sets brought in for show by church parishioners.

Elsbury said the event was in its 18th year and though baby Jesus was played by a doll this year, the manger has been occupied by a real child in the past.

Dorothy Simmons of Alexandria, who played the Virgin Mary, said sitting in the cold weather was worth the experience. “I think it’s a privilege to do this.”

Joseph, also known as Lester Smith of Lapel, said the snow and wet weather had kept crowds small on Sunday.

Ed Huntsinger, who played a wise man, said the event offered area children a chance to see and experience something unexpected on Sunday. “How many kids ever get a chance to see a real camel?”