Shepherd of the Hills holds live nativity play

SPARTA — Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Sparta ushered in the Christmas season on Dec. 10 with its annual Live Nativity play. Nearly 200 people attended the two shows, which featured the children of the church as Mary, Joseph, King Herod, the Three Kings, Angel Gabriel, the shepherds and angles. After the show, which included favorite Christmas carols, visitors had the opportunity to pet the sheep, goats and miniature donkey. Shepherd of the Hills will have several candlelight Christmas services this year. Christmas Eve services will be held at 5 p.m., 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. on Saturday the Dec. 24. A Christmas Day service will be held at 10:15 a.m. on Dec. 25. The church is located at 246 Woodport Rd. in Sparta. Visit www.sothnj.org, or call 973-729-7010 to learn more about the church’s services, Christian education and activities for children and adults.