Guide to Christmas Services, Sermons, and Pageants in Omaha

Each year, Christmas is one of the busy times for churches. Although many people easily get into the Christmas spirit and are filled with love for their fellow man, others turn to church to help them feel connected with mankind. While there are many churches and denominations which cater to your specific beliefs, here are some that provide amazing Christmas programs. Some of these attract even non-believers through their amazing living Nativity scenes and Christmas pageants.

Westside Church offers a Christmas pageant each year that is truly phenomenal. Even driving by the parking lot, you know that you are in for quite an event, as each year there are many sheep, camels, and other animals. And yes, these animals are brought inside, and even right up on stage for the pageant. This year, the program is called, "The Perfect Present". It presents the story of Tim, who is waiting in an endless line, struggling with whether or not he found "the perfect present", and other issues. The story also deals with a girl named Chloe who is looking for something to fill her empty heart this season. Tickets are free, and can be ordered by emailing the pageant office at Christmas@westsideomaha.org, or calling their office at 402-496-7833. Children are welcome although they do need a ticket, and if they get too antsy, there are monitors in the hallway for viewing the pageant. Because of the animals and the less sermon-like atmosphere, all but the smallest kids will love watching the program along with their parents. The show runs on various days from December 7th to the 17th. Call the church office for more information on dates and showtimes.

St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church has hosted a living nativity scene for the past 12 years, including this year. It takes place on December 9th and 10th, from 7-9pm. They have actors playing the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, angels, shephers, the three kings, and live animals throughout their parking lot. Visitors drive through the parking lot in order to see it, while Christmas hymns play in the background. You can find out more information from Lori Taylor at 402-334-4911. St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church is located at 11802 Pacific Street in Omaha, Nebraska.

Faith Christian Church at 2201 S. 132 Street in Omaha also offers a drive through nativity scene on the same dates. Theirs runs from 6-9pm, and visitors are invited inside for complimentary refreshments, fellowship, and caroling afterwards. As with St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church, they offer live actors reenacting the nativity scene as the Holy Family, shepherds, and the three kings. Live animals will also be present at this drive through nativity scene. You can find more information at their website at www.faithomaha.org, or by calling their church office at 402-333-7866.

If you are one of the many feeling empty this holiday season, stop by one of these churches to feel spiritual again. Their living Nativity scenes, Christmas displays, and holiday sermons can help renew your spirit and provide cheer for the new year.