A church in Palmerton gleamed in the charm and splendor of Jesus’ birth on Christmas.

Beautifully adorned in Christmas decorations, St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, 101 Lehigh Ave., is a sight to behold.

The central theme is the manger scene, which was bought many years ago by the late Dennis Mertz, and the church has used it ever since.

It has the church’s antique statues of Mary, Joseph, and shepherds with sheep. There is also a 13-foot tree with lights and ornaments.

The Rev. Evhen Moniuk thanked the congregation for further beautifying the church in time for the holiday season.

“We’re proud,” Moniuk said. “For a small congregation, everybody worked very hard.”

Those who helped decorate are Paul Steinmetz, James Chalus, Marie Krepicz, Ann Louise Mertz, Diane Owens, Maryann Taylor, Joan Turko, and Moniuk.

Moniuk said, “I want to give a really big thank you.”

Moniuk explained that the church would like to build a younger congregation.

“It’s nice to stay social,” he said. “In the future we want to be a cherished, growing congregation.”

Moniuk said they will have a Ukraine Tradition on Christmas Eve as well as on Christmas Day.