Most cannot picture a Nativity scene without images of baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph, but the Nativity placed in SGA Park is featured this year without these three main characters.

During the holiday break last year, several pieces of the exhibit were stolen and have yet to be recovered or replaced.

The “Christmas in the Park” exhibit has been featured in SGA Park for nearly 20 years. It was created when the Southeastern community decided they wanted to bring a “Christmas in the Oaks” feel to campus.  

Southeastern’s own chapter of Gamma Beta Phi volunteered to provide the exhibit, including the Nativity scene in the park. The pieces in the Nativity include three wise men, shepherds, livestock and the three now-missing characters.  

The whole Nativity scene was crafted by Brian Falgout, the father of a past president of Gamma Beta Phi.

A police investigation was filed after the theft, but suspects were difficult to find since the crime occurred during last year’s winter break.

“It is quite upsetting to know that this year the reason for the season is missing,” said Jackie Dale Thomas, Gamma Beta Phi faculty sponsor and leadership coordinator. “It would be great if whoever stole it would bring it back.”

The stolen characters have yet to be replaced, and when asked to recreate the stolen pieces, Falgout had to decline. The current Gamma Beta Phi officers and members are looking for someone to recreate the pieces or to create a whole new Nativity scene.  

“Gamma Beta Phi has always been great at bouncing back from adversity,” said Thomas.  

The Office of Leadership Development and Student Activities can be contacted at 985-549-2233 for more information or to volunteer replacement or recreation support. The office is located in Room 110 of the Student Union.