A Nativity scene inside the newly renovated St. Agnes Church in Arlington has a character not often seen in the annual faith devotional — an elephant.
Affectionately known in the parish as Elmo the Elephant, the nearly 4-foot figure flanks Charlie the Camel, and the Three Kings — St. Caspar (sometimes spelled Gaspar), Melchior and Balthazar.
Father William P. Saunders, pastor, ordered the fiberglass figures from the Demetz Art Studio in Ortesie, Italy.
The visiting kings have been to the far right of the Nativity scene that sits on hay in front of the altar. The familiar figures of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, are surrounded by shepherds and farm animals. Ever so slowly, the Three Kings and their entourage are being moved closer to the manger. By Epiphany, they’ll be part of the manger scene and Baby Jesus. Epiphany is Jan. 6, but the observance is Sunday, Jan. 8, this year.
