The Third Annual Puppy Nativity will be held Dec. 8 at The Church of the Good Shepherd (United Methodist) in Vienna. Pastor Eric Song, shown with his family and their dog, started the event as a creative way to involve the community in celebrating the Christmas season. Photo contributed
Area residents are invited to bring their puppies and dogs to take part in the Third Annual Puppy Nativity on Saturday, Dec. 8 at The Church of the Good Shepherd (United Methodist) in Vienna. The community event will be held at the church at 2351 Hunter Mill Road from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“The original nativity had many animals around the manger, so bringing our pets is a wonderful way to celebrate the season,” said The Rev. Eric Song, who started the creative new tradition in 2016 in his first year as Good Shepherd’s pastor. “Animals are a big part of our families, and we want all to be included. So bring your pets to pose at our nativity.”
Costumes and treats will be provided for pets, and photos will be taken. “These photos make great Christmas cards, too,” Song said.
Hot chocolate will be served, and the church’s youth group will be on hand to accept donations to provide Christmas gift cards to families through Britepaths (https://britepaths.org), a nonprofit providing help and hope to struggling residents in the Fairfax County area. Additionally, the “Peace Like a River” exhibit of mixed media paintings by artist Alice Nodine will be open in The Gallery at the church.
The Church of the Good Shepherd celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. For more information about Advent worship services, visit the church website at www.GoodShepherdVA.com or at www.Facebook.com/GoodShepherdVienna.