(12-11-24) A Christmas Nativity Dedication Ceremony was held at Mercer Health on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 in honor of the historical and treasured Christmas Nativity set on display in the Atrium at Mercer County Community Hospital.

Pictured left to right is the family of Dr. Robert Albers: Dr. Tom & Maria Schwieterman, Beth Sheeley and Karen Wenning

The original nativity was donated by Dr. Robert Albers in the 1970’s. Dr. Albers acquired the set from the original Our Lady of Mercy Hospital. Most recently, Mercer Health Volunteer, John Braun, designed and created a new crib and manger and Sandy Ripploh, retired Mercer Health employee, restored and painted the nativity pieces.

Lisa Klenke, Mercer Health CEO, gave a history of the nativity set followed by a dedication, blessing and prayer by Deacon Steve Broering. The ceremony concluded with music from pianist and Mercer Health nurse Denise Stammen.

Klenke said-

“The restoration of the nativity set is more than the preservation of a treasured object; it is an act of stewardship and devotion. It ensures that future generations can continue to experience its beauty and be reminded of the eternal message it conveys-a message of humility, grace, and the boundless power of love.”

The Nativity Set is located in the Atrium at Mercer County Community Hospital and is proudly set-up and displayed each holiday season by the Mercer Health Volunteers.