On Tuesday, November 28th, 2017, the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee will again host a display depicting the birth of Jesus Christ.  For the tenth year in a row, the crèche will stand in the center of the State Capitol Rotunda Building located at South 2nd Street & East Capitol Avenue in Springfield, Illinois.

The Committee’s primary goal is to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  The secondary goal is to inform the public and media regarding the constitutionality of such expressions of religious faith in the public square.

In 2008, the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee made history when the Illinois Sec. of State’s office granted a permit to the group, allowing a Nativity Scene to go on display in the Capitol for the first time in state history.  Since 2008, 15 other states have followed Illinois’ lead.  The U.S. Constitution provides for such religious expression in the public square–as long as such displays are privately-funded and temporary in nature.

There will be a ceremony beginning at 12 Noon and ending at 1 P.M. on Tuesday, November 28^th, 2017.  Christmas carols will be performed by The Ensemble of Springfield.  An invocation will be given by the Rev. Bernie Lutchman of Businessmen In Christ (Springfield) and a Springfield Nativity Scene Committee member.

Among those scheduled to speak are Tom Brejcha, Founder and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Society Pro-Life Law Center and Springfield Nativity Scene Committee’s legal counsel; Pastor Greg Wooten of Hope Chapel in Lincoln and Father Charles Edwards of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield.

First responder Chaplain Steve Holden of Wreaths Across America & veteran Rosemary Connolly will honor our military by placing a wreath in front of the five flags representing all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.  This will mark the group’s sixth year participating with the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee.

The Nativity scene will be on display during normal business hours from November 28th through January 2^nd, 2018.

Musicians and singers are encouraged to sing Christmas carols near the Nativity scene when the Capitol is open.  A permit is required.  If interested, please contact Salli Chernis with Sec. of State Jesse White’s office, Department of Physical Services / Division of Special Events at 217-782-8996.  NOTE:  Music is limited to the noon hour.

For more info, please contact Julie Zanoza, Chair Woman, Springfield Nativity Scene Committee at 217-735-0431, or call the Thomas More Society at 312-782-1680.