Over 800 Nativities on Display at St. Paul's Lutheran Church
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Submitted by Kate Philabaum [email protected] 419.270.3224
Carl and Anna Mae Bowles Donate Lifelong Nativity Collection to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Toledo
Toledo, OH — [November 8, 2025]
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Toledo is honored to receive a remarkable gift from Carl and Anna Mae Bowles: a donation of 1,500 nativity scenes collected over a lifetime. This extraordinary collection features handcrafted pieces from around the globe, made with high-quality materials and representing a wide array of cultures and artistic styles.
The Bowles’ generous gift aligns perfectly with St. Paul’s long-standing tradition of hosting its annual Nativity Festival each December, a cherished community event that draws visitors from across the region. The Nativity Festival includes Sunday concerts at 4pm: Academy Brass Dec 7, Asteria String Quartet Dec 14, Siberian Solstice Dec 21. Friday night “Carols and Cocktails” held in HeART Gallery features Tapestry: harp & guitar Dec 5, Ben Delong Band Dec 12, and Pemberville Sonfire Praise Band Dec 19. In addition to the Bowles’ extensive collection, guests will see additional nativities staged among decorated trees and tablescapes for a glimpse into a vast global expression of the nativity story. Young and old alike enjoy the pictoral scavenger hunt spread across nine rooms and four floors of the beautiful, historic building.
The public is invited to view the beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of the collection on Fridays and Sundays between 4-7pm, December 5 - 21. Groups are welcome to visit at other pre-arranged times. Parking and admission are free, however donations are appreciated.
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church is located at 428 North Erie Street, Toledo. For more information about the 2025 Nativity Festival, contact Kate Philabaum at [email protected].