DOVER - The weather that has gripped southeastern Wisconsin for the past few days is making Beverly Squire nervous.

Organizers of the English Settlement United Methodist Church's annual "Christmas in the Barn" service have only cancelled it once in 40 years, Squire said. One year, in the 1980s, it was too cold.

On Tuesday, Squire, one of the organizers of the service, didn't see anything encouraging about the recent winter storm that blanketed Racine County with more than a foot of snow and the frigid temperatures that followed. Nine services are scheduled to be held Wednesday from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. in a barn at the John and Cindy Squire farm, 26715 Church Road in the Town of Dover.

"I'm hoping we don't have to cancel it, but time will tell," Squire said.

Church members, and sometimes non-members, portray Mary, Joseph and the shepherds. A live infant portrays the baby Jesus.

The service also includes farm animals. Visitors sit in the heated barn to hear the story of Jesus' birth unfold as angels, shepherds and the three wise men come and kneel before the baby in the manger.

Church members participate in readings and sing songs. Other members serve as hosts to make sure everyone has enough coffee and cookies to eat while they wait.

"It's a short service. We all know the story, but to see it done is really wonderful," Squire said.

Members of the church make the costumes for the service. They even made robes for the wise men out of a large piece of maroon velvet that once hung at the front of the church, which is located at the intersection of highways A and J in the Town of Rochester.

Squire has been involved since the beginning. The service started 40 years ago as a church youth group project intended mainly for the congregation.

The church opened it up to the community and it has grown every year since. It's become a tradition for many in this part of western Racine County. Last year, 1,200 people attended.

"It's been a long while and it's a wonderful time," Squire said.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: The English Settlement United Methodist Church "Christmas in the Barn" service

WHEN: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24; services every half hour, nine services total

WHERE: The John and Cindy Squire farm, 26715 Church Road in the Town of Dover

COST: Free