[December 03, 2012]    

For some folks, the joy of the Nativity extends beyond the celebration of the birth of Christ.

For the Reifsteck family, the Nativity has played an important role in their lives and the lives of their children and grandchildren. It began in 1949 when Wallace Reifsteck received the gift of a Nativity at his time of confirmation. The set was made by his sister and gifted to him. It was something that he has treasured and cared for his entire life. 

At the same time, the little Nativity served as an inspiration to his wife, Toni. When the Reifsteck children reached the age of confirmation, Toni made each one of them their own Nativity set. When those children had children, Toni continued the tradition, making sets for her grandchildren when they reached confirmation.

And, the gift of the Nativity was something that the children also reciprocated to their parents, as Doug Reifsteck made a Nativity in Sunday school class in 1966, and the Reifstecks' granddaughter Rachel made a set and gave it to Wallace and Toni when she was 12.

Pictures by Nila Smith

Owned by Wallace Reifsteck, given to him by his sister at his confirmation in 1949

Owned by Elaine Aue, made and given to her by her mother, Tonita Reifsteck

 

 

Made by Tonita Reifsteck and given to her granddaughter Rachel at her confirmation in 2011

Made and given to the Reifstecks by their granddaughter Rachel