My favorite Christmas story took place a few years ago. The Middle School Youth were performing the annual St Paul’s Live Nativity. During the event the kids would call out to me the latest crisis. “The chickens are loose.” “The sheep are going to the bathroom…eewww!” My personal favorite was, “The donkey’s eating Jesus, the donkey’s eating Jesus.” OK, that wasn’t quite what was happening, but he was enjoying the hay in the feed trough. As we stood there watching this chaos, we thought of what Mary must have gone through. It couldn’t have been pleasant; the smells and noise must have been overwhelming. Yet in the midst of all this, a miracle occurred; a king was born.
That’s how December felt around the Parish House. Every room was in use. Paper was flying; glue was stuck to everyone, young and old. Youth were sometimes remembering their lines for the pageant, but were mostly concerned that the snacks might run out before they got to coffee hour. Nothing was in order, but the enthusiasm and excitement were sky high. But again, as in Bethlehem, a wonderful thing happened. Out of this “Holy chaos” came over 100 hand-made Christmas cards for the Christmas food baskets. Songs and parts were learned, and a beautiful Pageant, with over 60 children, all singing their hearts out for the Lord, was performed. Like 2000 years ago, with love great things did happen.
Thank you to all the parents who helped out with the Pageant this year, especially Joanne Naumann, who sorted a tangled mess of costumes. I could never do this without all of you. Kevin and Buddy ‑ you were amazing again this year. The music was terrific. St. Paul’s is blessed to have such a talented duo. Thank you.
~ Lori Lamb ~
Important Church School Dates
Jan. 1 Community Worship (New Year’s Day)
Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29 Regular Church School (RCS)
Feb. 5 RCS
Special Fifth Grade classes with the clergy (immediately following Church School), will be held Jan. 8, Feb. 5, 12, Mar. 19, April 23. Attendance is greatly encouraged.