At Park Pointe Village, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, the spirit of Christmas shines brightly—and on a life-size scale. This year, residents unveiled a stunning nativity scene that showcases both their artistic talents and collaborative community spirit. The nativity, completed just in time for Advent, is the result of months of dedication and teamwork by a passionate group of residents.
"Last year, I was inspired after seeing a full-size nativity crafted by our community's life engagement director Andrea Powell and her parents," said Park Pointe Village resident Monique Boekhout, who spearheaded the project. “Andrea and her mother had painted it beautifully. I knew with our wonderfully talented residents living at Park Pointe Village, we could do the same."
Crafting the Nativity Figures
So began the nearly year-long labor of love. Six resident woodworkers, including master craftsman Don Hessler, began the intricate task of cutting the shapes. Meanwhile, a team of eight talented residents transformed the community room into an artist’s atelier, painting the figurines under Andrea Powell’s guidance.
“The details were infinite,” Monique said, “but the camaraderie was incredible. Every week, we gathered to bring these characters to life, one brushstroke at a time.”
About ten months of effort resulted in 14 beautifully crafted nativity pieces, protected with a durable coating. Resident Don Hessler engineered supports to ensure the figures could withstand the wind, and resident Tom Luke designed and built the stable, assembling it first in his son’s shop before reassembling it on-site at Park Pointe Village.
A Special First Night
On December 1st, the first Sunday of Advent, residents gathered for the nativity’s dedication. “It was a very cold, sunny day,” Monique said, “but the warmth of community filled the air.”
About 60 residents joined in singing Christmas carols, followed by a prayer from Chaplain Mia. When the lights illuminated the nativity for the first time, it was a moment of awe and celebration.
“This was a great team project,” Monique said. “It’s a beautiful reminder of what Christmas is all about.”
The creation of the life-size nativity wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of the following residents: Don Dickson, Don Hessler, Phil Lewis, Tom Luke, Cregg Moss, Gerald Oakes, Caroline Erdrich, Janet Garrity, Sherron Marshall, Penny MacDonald, Christy McCann, Judy Moss, Anne Oakes, Jonatha Vare, Andrea Powell, and Monique Boekhout.
Visitors and residents alike are invited to enjoy this magnificent display.
"It's been very exciting to share this beautiful display," said Monique. "Our residents are so talented and creative; Park Pointe Village is such a special community."
Monique and her husband moved to Park Pointe Village about six years ago. After losing her husband two years ago, Monique has found immense comfort and support in the community.
“This was the best place for me,” she shared. “If something were to happen, you couldn’t find a better place to be. The support system and the friendliness of the people here are incredible. Invitations to dinner, the caring atmosphere—it’s just great.”
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