Friends of the Creche
Great Lakes Conference
Great Lakes Conference
Join us on December 01
Welcome to Cleveland for the Friends of the Creche Great Lakes Conference. The beautiful Great Lakes area spans 4530 miles of coastline and holds 20% of the world's fresh water. Unique to this area are the square shaped lighthouses that will be featured on our conference banner.
Our conference will focus on local Nativity displays, creche presentations and special events. We have four speakers lined up and a great program planned. Included cherished traditions will be the Member's Museum of Miniatures, Banquet and Silent Auction. Back by popular demand is the Manger Mart of vendors.
On our bus tour, we will rotate between four sites:visit Kirtland - home to the first Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We will enjoy their display of over 400 nativities from all over the world and tour their historic temple. Next, our tour includes the Koehn's Sanctuary on Green. The Koehns make hand carved nativities and they will host us in their studio and retail shop. Our tour includes a stop at the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Catholic Church in Akron that showcases 400 nativities and a replica of the Bethlehem cave. Finally, Suzanne Woods will share her beautiful collection (and a special treat!) in her home.
We will have a crafting pre-conference event on Monday prior to check-in. There will be three sessions of crafting events. See below for details.
The registration cost per person is $295, which includes conference materials, opening reception, presentations, chartered bus tour, entrance fees, lunches (Tuesday and Wednesday) and the closing banquet. Deadline for registration is October 15, 2025. No refunds will be issued after this date. Until September 1st your registration is 100% refundable. From September 1st - October 15th, you may receive a 50% refund.
Our three days together will a wonderful time to reconnect, share our nativity stories and treasures.
Our conference will focus on local Nativity displays, creche presentations and special events. We have four speakers lined up and a great program planned. Included cherished traditions will be the Member's Museum of Miniatures, Banquet and Silent Auction. Back by popular demand is the Manger Mart of vendors.
On our bus tour, we will rotate between four sites:visit Kirtland - home to the first Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We will enjoy their display of over 400 nativities from all over the world and tour their historic temple. Next, our tour includes the Koehn's Sanctuary on Green. The Koehns make hand carved nativities and they will host us in their studio and retail shop. Our tour includes a stop at the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Catholic Church in Akron that showcases 400 nativities and a replica of the Bethlehem cave. Finally, Suzanne Woods will share her beautiful collection (and a special treat!) in her home.
We will have a crafting pre-conference event on Monday prior to check-in. There will be three sessions of crafting events. See below for details.
The registration cost per person is $295, which includes conference materials, opening reception, presentations, chartered bus tour, entrance fees, lunches (Tuesday and Wednesday) and the closing banquet. Deadline for registration is October 15, 2025. No refunds will be issued after this date. Until September 1st your registration is 100% refundable. From September 1st - October 15th, you may receive a 50% refund.
Our three days together will a wonderful time to reconnect, share our nativity stories and treasures.
Location
Cleveland Marriott East
26300 Harvard Rd.
Warrensville Heights, OH.
26300 Harvard Rd.
Warrensville Heights, OH.
Date & Time
December 1, 2025, 6:30 PM - December 3, 2025 - 10:00 PM
Schedule
Monday, December 1, 2025
10:00 am -
noon
noon
Pre-Conference Crafting Activity, 1st Session
Classes available this hour are the Folded Nativity Book, Pop-Up Card, and Paper Pulp Ornament.
NOON -
1 PM
1 PM
Lunch Break
1-3 pm
Pre-Conference Crafting Activity, 2nd Session
Classes available this hour are the Folded Nativity Book, Mini Origami Holy Family, and Octagonal Creche Ornament.
3:15 PM-
5:15 pm
5:15 pm
Pre-Conference Crafting Activity, 3rd Session
Classes available for this hour are the Folded Nativity Book and Mini in a Tin.
1:00 pm-
5:00 PM
5:00 PM
Check-In
If you are arriving on December 1st, rooms may not be available until 4 pm. Please bring your silent auction and display items to the check-in room. Pick up your conference materials at the welcome table near the lobby. Signs will point you to the location.
6:30 pm
Opening Reception
Gather with friends and meet new people in the Atrium. Hors d'oeuvres will be served and a cash bar will be available.
4:00 pm-
9:00 PM
9:00 PM
Member's Mart
Gather with friends and meet new people in the Atrium. Hors d'oeuvres will be served and a cash bar will be available.
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
9:00 AM
Presentation of Banners and General Meeting
Join us in the ballroom for a general meeting of our membership.
10:00-
11:00 AM-
11:00 AM-
Speaker, Kathleen Philabaum
Delve into the daily lives of Bethlehem's citizens to understand what Biblical and archeological research tell us about the family social structure, geography, and environment of the nativity story. Using 7.5" Fontanini figures, Kate Philabaum introduces us to Micah and Jareth, shepherd boys; Thaddeus and Elizabeth, innkeepers; Ruben and Peter, field hands; and others who work as weavers, bakers, potters in the village.
11:00-
NOON
NOON
Speaker, Christopher Axelrod
A popular and highly informative lecture by a seasoned industry market expert to learn the reality of what is driving today's national art market trends and values, as well as forecasting their future worth. Christopher will translate this information for our nativity treasures to help us know their value. Creative methods of collection disbursement will be addressed.
Noon -
1:00 PM
1:00 PM
Lunch
Enjoy the buffet lunch in the ballroom.
1:15 PM-
2:00 PM
2:00 PM
Speaker, Colleen Snyder, Cleveland Museum of Art
"Presepio Production: Uncovering the Materials and Manufacture of a Neapolitan 18th Century Creche". The city of Naples, Italy has a long tradition of creating elaborate doll-like figurines for Nativity scenes. This practice, which began in the early 1700s, continues today, and the most elaborate scenes contain hundreds of figurines, animals and even accessories like musical instruments and food. Recent research and analysis of the materials and techniques have provided a window into how Cleveland's presepio set was constructed.
2:00 PM-
2:30 PM
2:30 PM
Comfort Break
The Manger Mart and Member's Museum will be open during all comfort breaks.
2:30 PM-
3:10 PM
3:10 PM
Speaker, Kathleen Conrad
Tour coordinator for a permanent museum showcasing over 400 nativities, Kathleen will share how they promote the museum through various tours and events. You will see pictures of the church (which reflects the birthplace of Jesus), the Bethlehem Cave, and a replica of Jesus' birthplace as it now appears in Bethlehem. You will also hear input from Fr. David Halaiko, founder of the museum, who will present some of the unique nativities in their display.
3:30 PM-
4:00 PM
4:00 PM
Comfort Break
The Manger Mart and Members Museum will be open on the Comfort Break.
4:00 PM-
5:00 PM
5:00 PM
Speaker, Father Johann Roten
Learn about unique figures that have been represented in nativity scenes. How does their presence enhance the Incarnation? Fr. Roten, founding FOTC member and professor from the University of Dayton, is a creche scholar and expert. He has spoken around the world, sharing the unique beauty of many cultural expressions of Jesus.
5:00 PM-
9:00 PM
9:00 PM
Dinner, Member's Museum, Manger Mart
Dinner will be on your own at the many nearby food establishments listed in your program. The Manger Mart and Member's Museum will be open until 9 pm.
8:00 PM-
9:00 PM
9:00 PM
Fireside Chat
Come chat with the members of the Board of Directors, reconnect with old acquaintances, or meet some new friends in the Atrium for an informal gathering.
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
7:45 AM-
5:30 pM
5:30 pM
Bus Tour
Spend the day touring some of the finest nativity exhibits in the Cleveland area. Buses will rotate through four sites: Kirtland Nativity Exhibit and Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Kirtland Temple Tour, Church of the Nativity, Sanctuary on Green, and Suzanne Wood's private nativity collection. Lunch will be provided.
6:30 PM
Closing Banquet, Happy Hour and Silent Auction
Our closing banquet and auction will be held in the ballroom of the Marriott hotel. Cash bar will be available. Shannon Ellen will be entertaining us with a twist on Christ carol favorites. Join in our traditional sing-a-long as we draw our conference to a close.
9:30 PM
Silent Auction Closes
Please pick up your winning items. Purchases can be made by credit card, check or cash.
BUS TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
HISTORIC KIRTLAND NATIVITY EXHIBIT
During the holidays, the Historic Kirtland Visitors' Center exhibits hundreds of Nativities. This year, our expanded collection will also be shown at the Kirtland Temple Visitors’ Center. These beautiful Nativities are made of traditional fabrics, glass porcelain, jewels, wood carvings, clay, and natural materials. Thousands of people from far and near will come to the Historic Kirtland Visitors' Center as well as the Kirtland Temple Visitors’ Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to view the Nativities on display. The Historic Kirtland Nativity exhibit features over 600 loaned nativity sets, thousands of lights, and sacred Christmas music. The exhibit is a past American Bus Association “Top 100 Events in North America” selection.
Part of our visit will include a visit to the Kirtland Temple. The Kirtland Temple stands on a bluff in northeastern Ohio, about 25 miles east of Cleveland, overlooking the beautiful Chagrin Valley. The temple is a historic property open for free tours to members of all faiths. Several sites and buildings have been restored in Historic Kirtland by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, bringing to life the story and spirit of the early Kirtland Saints.
During the holidays, the Historic Kirtland Visitors' Center exhibits hundreds of Nativities. This year, our expanded collection will also be shown at the Kirtland Temple Visitors’ Center. These beautiful Nativities are made of traditional fabrics, glass porcelain, jewels, wood carvings, clay, and natural materials. Thousands of people from far and near will come to the Historic Kirtland Visitors' Center as well as the Kirtland Temple Visitors’ Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to view the Nativities on display. The Historic Kirtland Nativity exhibit features over 600 loaned nativity sets, thousands of lights, and sacred Christmas music. The exhibit is a past American Bus Association “Top 100 Events in North America” selection.
Part of our visit will include a visit to the Kirtland Temple. The Kirtland Temple stands on a bluff in northeastern Ohio, about 25 miles east of Cleveland, overlooking the beautiful Chagrin Valley. The temple is a historic property open for free tours to members of all faiths. Several sites and buildings have been restored in Historic Kirtland by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, bringing to life the story and spirit of the early Kirtland Saints.
SANCTUARY ON GREEN
Situated on a former 19th and early 20th century Jerusalem artichoke farm with originally over 25 acres, their home was built in 1910 by entrepreneur Fred Langer and his wife Rosemary. The 140 year old barn houses the studio of renowned sculptor, Norbert Koehn and his wife Victoria. Victoria went to Germany for her high school senior project. She traveled to Oberammergau, Germany to study wood sculpture. She met Norbert on their first day at school and it was love at first sight. She returned to Germany after high school and 3 years later received her Journeyman's Certificate. Norbert continued his studies and earned his Master's Degree. After graduating, they spent the next year prop-building and creating costumes for the Passion Play in Oberammergau which is performed every ten years since 1634.
The Koehn's Sculptures are featured in liturgical, residential, outdoor, commercial and institutional settings. They work in wood and stone, enhancing every environment. As liturgical consultants, they have transformed sacred spaces in many communities.
Overlooking the Nine Mile Creek Wetlands, their land is embellished in natural beauty offering an eco-friendly, peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience. Wander or sit in peace, perhaps experience a meditative walk in their gardens and enjoy the peaceful aspects of selecting gifts in a classic European setting in their home. Stroll the gardens, and enter their home of gifting wonders.
Their home is a special place. A warm welcome and pleasant conversation is customary. Here is a simple life filled with simple pleasures inspired by memories and wonderful life experiences.
Situated on a former 19th and early 20th century Jerusalem artichoke farm with originally over 25 acres, their home was built in 1910 by entrepreneur Fred Langer and his wife Rosemary. The 140 year old barn houses the studio of renowned sculptor, Norbert Koehn and his wife Victoria. Victoria went to Germany for her high school senior project. She traveled to Oberammergau, Germany to study wood sculpture. She met Norbert on their first day at school and it was love at first sight. She returned to Germany after high school and 3 years later received her Journeyman's Certificate. Norbert continued his studies and earned his Master's Degree. After graduating, they spent the next year prop-building and creating costumes for the Passion Play in Oberammergau which is performed every ten years since 1634.
The Koehn's Sculptures are featured in liturgical, residential, outdoor, commercial and institutional settings. They work in wood and stone, enhancing every environment. As liturgical consultants, they have transformed sacred spaces in many communities.
Overlooking the Nine Mile Creek Wetlands, their land is embellished in natural beauty offering an eco-friendly, peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience. Wander or sit in peace, perhaps experience a meditative walk in their gardens and enjoy the peaceful aspects of selecting gifts in a classic European setting in their home. Stroll the gardens, and enter their home of gifting wonders.
Their home is a special place. A warm welcome and pleasant conversation is customary. Here is a simple life filled with simple pleasures inspired by memories and wonderful life experiences.
NATIVITY OF THE LORD JESUS CATHOLIC CHURCH
Our Bethlehem Cave is a replica of the cave where Jesus was born as it appears today in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Israel. Only two such replicas exist in the United States, the other one is in Washington, D.C.
Our Nativity Museum contains over 400 beautiful and unique Nativity Scenes from all over the world.
Our Church features large wooden truss and stone construction with stained-glass windows depicting the mystery of Christmas..
Our Bethlehem Cave is a replica of the cave where Jesus was born as it appears today in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Israel. Only two such replicas exist in the United States, the other one is in Washington, D.C.
Our Nativity Museum contains over 400 beautiful and unique Nativity Scenes from all over the world.
Our Church features large wooden truss and stone construction with stained-glass windows depicting the mystery of Christmas..
SUZANNE WOODS' PRIVATE NATIVITY COLLECTION
Miniature Nativity Members Museum
Those in attendance are asked to bring one or more miniature nativities to loan for the creation of a members nativity display during the convention. The footprint of the nativity should be approximately 3 inches by 3 inches or less.
Those in attendance are asked to bring one or more miniature nativities to loan for the creation of a members nativity display during the convention. The footprint of the nativity should be approximately 3 inches by 3 inches or less.
Silent Auction
Members are requested to donate nativity items for the silent auction. Over the years the most common donations have been nativities, but other items are most welcome. Nativity ornaments, nativity themed jewelry, blankets and many other items have been donated over the years. All funds raised from the auction help support the work of FOTC.
Members are requested to donate nativity items for the silent auction. Over the years the most common donations have been nativities, but other items are most welcome. Nativity ornaments, nativity themed jewelry, blankets and many other items have been donated over the years. All funds raised from the auction help support the work of FOTC.
Speakers
Father Johann Roten
Univeristy of dayton
"UNUSUAL FIGURES IN NATIVITY SCENES"
Kathleen Conrad
church of the nativity
"BETHLEHEM IN AKRON OH - A CHURCH, A CAVE, A MUSEUM
Christopher Axelrod
CLEVELAND GO-TO GUY
"THE FUTURE OF YOUR NATIVITY COLLECTION"
Colleen Snyder
The cleveland museum of art
"Presepio Production: Uncovering the Materials and Manufacture of a Neapolitan 18th Century Creche"
Pre-Conference Crafting Activity
Our Creche Crafting Creations will involve six different crafts to choose from. They will be split among three different timed sessions. You may register for two. If there are still openings after all the registrations come in we will send an email in October inviting participants to pick a third session.
The book folding project will require additional time on your own to complete. If you have a sentimental book you would like to use it should measure 6 x 9 1/2 x 2« thick and contain about 500 pages. For the octagon ornament, you are invited to bring at least 20 different nativity cards. They can be cards you have received, which will make this project even more sentimental. You do not need to be an expert craftsman or artist to participate in these projects. A $30 fee will cover materials and supplies.
The book folding project will require additional time on your own to complete. If you have a sentimental book you would like to use it should measure 6 x 9 1/2 x 2« thick and contain about 500 pages. For the octagon ornament, you are invited to bring at least 20 different nativity cards. They can be cards you have received, which will make this project even more sentimental. You do not need to be an expert craftsman or artist to participate in these projects. A $30 fee will cover materials and supplies.
Paper Pulp Nativity
Folded Nativity Book
Origami Ornament
Octagonal Ornament
CEO
Please bring 20 Christmas cards to complete this craft.
Pop-Up Nativity Card
Limited quantities available. Sign up early!
Mini in a Tin
PAYMENT OPTIONS
You have the option of paying by credit card with a 2.9% + $0.30 fee OR by check. If you opt to pay by check you must immediately remit your payment to Toni Conway3242 S. Carpenter Rd. Modesto, CA. 95358
LOOKING TO EXTEND YOUR STAY?
Here's some ideas for day trips in the area if you are looking to extend your stay in the Cleveland area.
Church of the Gesu
2470 Miramar Blvd.
University Heights, OH.
Free of Charge
Church of the Gesu was founded in 1920 and the current church was built in 1958. It has 2600 families and 725 students enrolled in its K through 8th grade school. A few years ago Father Lukas Laniauskas decided they needed an impact statement for the Christmas season. He installed the life sized nativity on the front walkway. Everyone can see it from the road. Emma Lincoln's (former member) nativity collection is permanently displayed on the main floor. There are several dozen from all over the world. They include an Australian nativity made from brush, one made of Coke cans from Kenyan and a modern Rubic's Cube nativity. Also a wooden set from Romania with delightful animals and kings on horseback.
Members will be voluntarily driving to this location. You may sign up for a time slot during check-in.
Lorain’s Little Town of Bethlehem
1046 West 19th Street
Lorain, Ohio
Open 6-9 pm
Free of charge
For over 100 years Salvatore Kovach’s family has invited the public to view its Nativity display. His grandfather made the first display in 1919. Besides the original scene, the Kovach family sets up a massive replica of Bethlehem in their cordoned off living room. The entire set can be viewed from either inside their home or outside on the lawn.
1046 West 19th Street
Lorain, Ohio
Open 6-9 pm
Free of charge
For over 100 years Salvatore Kovach’s family has invited the public to view its Nativity display. His grandfather made the first display in 1919. Besides the original scene, the Kovach family sets up a massive replica of Bethlehem in their cordoned off living room. The entire set can be viewed from either inside their home or outside on the lawn.
Members will be voluntarily driving to this location. You may sign up for a time slot during check-in.
Lorain Historical Society
329 W 10th Street
Lorain, OH. 44052
Open Tues, Thur, Sat 10:00am - 3:00pm
Dan Bihary’s huge display depicting Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus is set up with a new feature each year. He uses Fontanini figures. Some are rare and very collectable. The whole experience is magical.
Lorain Historical Society
329 W 10th Street
Lorain, OH. 44052
Open Tues, Thur, Sat 10:00am - 3:00pm
Dan Bihary’s huge display depicting Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus is set up with a new feature each year. He uses Fontanini figures. Some are rare and very collectable. The whole experience is magical.
The Bethlehem Cave and Nativity Museum
Located in the Lord Jesus Catholic Church
2425 Mysersville Road
Akron, OH 4431
There are over 400 nativities to see. They will also have their annual Bethlehem Marketplace open. The Marketplace allows guests to experience what a market would have been like in Jesus’ time. Entrance fee of $3.00. Visitors can also free in costume and be photographed in the Nativity stable.
Light of Hearts Villa
283 Union Street
Bedford, OH 44146
440-232-1991
Light of Hearts Villa has several dozen Nativities on permanent display. Visitors are always welcomed.
GROUP HOTEL RESERVATIONS
Group Rate, per night, is $119 for a King and $139 for 2 Queen. Group Rate is available from November 30th - December 7th.