The sun comes out briefly as Pastor Mike Beezley sings “Silent Night.” (Photos by Amanda McFarland)

LEESBURG — A small crowd gathered at Leesburg’s Clover Park on an unusually warm December morning to celebrate the second annual dedication of the town’s life-size nativity.

The nativity has become a local icon of sorts. It first came to Leesburg in 1965, when the Heierman family, which owned the People’s State Bank, purchased it in Frankenmuth, Mich. Over the years, the nativity passed through several owners until Sue Charlton purchased it and it went on display at the park.

Time took its toll and the pieces were showing plenty of wear. Leesburg resident Dannielle Robertson had admired the scene for several seasons and noticed it was in need of a facelift. A retired theatrical set designer from California, Robertson knew what needed to be done to bring new life to the pieces.

Putting her knowledge to work, Robertson applied professional techniques, using a color palette similar to what would have been available in Palestine around 2,000 years ago. Several of the refurbished pieces made their debut last year. This year, several more have been upgraded.

A small crowd gathered for a short dedication ceremony. Pastor Mike Beezley of Clunette United Methodist Church gave a brief history of the nativity scene, then performed some carols on his ukulele, along with Anna Gibson on vocals.

Some of the pieces still need work. The angel still needs a touchup, Beezley said, and one of the camels needs repairs after several people sat on it. One of the sheep is also missing from the set.

“So, if you happen to see him running around, let me know, or Sue or Dannielle,” Beezley said, jokingly.

The pieces, Beezley added, are fiberglass and of the Italian Fontanini style. They can be viewed throughout the Christmas season and during the Leesburg Candelaria, set for this evening.