A nativity story

From Lois Parkinson (former member of Kent First Presbyterian Church):

Seattle Presbytery donated a Nativity from Kent First Presbyterian Church to the United Methodist Church in Kent. The Nativity was dedicated by Pastor Jim Head-Corliss on December 9th and the James Family from former KFPC gave the history of the Nativity:

Through a series of awesome and improbable events, Kent United Methodist Church recently received the Nativity used at the Kent First Presbyterian Church. Seattle Presbytery gifted the Nativity to our Church in early November.  They have asked that when it is used this Advent Season, that pictures be taken and sent to Presbytery so they can share the “new life” of this Nativity with their Presbyterian Congregations.

Many former members of Kent First Presbyterian Church are members or attend church regularly so it especially joyful that this rich tradition can be passed on and be enjoyed by this congregation.

Josephine Hayes, sister of Pat James, a long-time member of the former Kent First Presbyterian Church, crafted the Nativity between 1995-1997 and donated it to the Kent First Presbyterian Church.  Josephine poured the molds and then hand painted several Nativity Sets for her family and for the Kent First Presbyterian Church. Dan James crafted the Manger that accompanies it. The Nativity was an integral part of Worship throughout the Advent Season for more than twenty years. During the Advent Season, various pieces were added each Sunday culminating with the addition of Baby Jesus at the Christmas Eve Service.  

Today, Josephine is 100 years old and lives in Oregon.  Pat James and her son, Dan and daughter-in-law, Rhonda regularly attends Kent United Methodist Church.