Neumann University will capture the Christmas spirit with its annual live nativity re-enactment on Wednesday, December 4, at 7 p.m. on the lawn of the Mirenda Center.

Known as the Greccio celebration, the event marks the anniversary of Christians remembering the birth of Christ by staging a public performance of the Christmas story.

St. Francis of Assisi created the first live nativity scene in Greccio, Italy, in 1223. Now a traditional element of Christmas festivities around the world, the ritual has been celebrated ever since.

The university program is free and open to the public.

Neumann students will re-enact the Franciscan tradition of the crib, performing the live nativity scene, complete with live manger animals. President Chris Domes, First Lady Mary Domes, and Vice President Sr. Kathy Dougherty will host the event and read the scripture narration.

From 6-7 p.m., a petting zoo of manger animals will be on site to entertain youngsters at the event. In addition to the Greccio celebration, the university also invites the community to celebrate Mass at noon in Sacred Heart Chapel, located in Bachmann Main Building.

After the re-enactment, all are welcome to meet Santa and enjoy refreshments in the Bayada Atrium of the Mirenda Center.

For a complete schedule of cultural events at Neumann, visit www.neumann.edu/arts .