Contact: Jim Finnegan, 847-526-1152, 847-612-1802 cell

CHICAGO, Nov. 24 /Christian Newswire/ -- On Saturday, November 28th, at 11:00 a.m. families will gather in Daley Plaza, at Dearborn and Washington Streets in downtown Chicago, to celebrate the annual dedication of the Chicago Nativity Scene.

"The Nativity Scene has been an annual tradition in Daley Plaza since l985 when the beautiful life size crèche was first displayed," said Terrance Hodges, co-chair of the Nativity Scene Committee.

"This remains the sole religious expression of Christmas on a government plaza in downtown Chicago," said Hodges. "The God Squad, a group of volunteer tradesmen, will erect the stable and install the lighting as they have for the past 23 years."

Fr. Stephen Lesniewski of Immaculate Conception Parish on Chicago's southwest side will bless the crèche. Other members of the clergy will offer prayers to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

The children in attendance will have the honor of placing the Baby Jesus in His manger, marking the continued return of the Christ Child to His rightful place in the hearts of the Chicago community.

The bell choir from Santa Maria del Popolo Catholic Church in Mundelein, Ill. will ring in the sacred season, along with the singing of Christmas hymns.

Daley Plaza is a popular destination for Chicagoans and visitors to wrap themselves in the Christmas spirit throughout the festive season. The Nativity Scene committee invites all Chicago area families to join them on Saturday, November 28th, to inaugurate the Christmas season or to stop by Daley Plaza to visit the Christ Child when they come downtown to enjoy the decorations.

The Nativity Scene will remain in Daley Plaza throughout the Christmas season.

For a detailed history of the Chicago Nativity Scene visit:
http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2007/11/a-christmas-tra.html