|
|
Marching To The Manger:
Bilingual Living Nativity Pageant
|
|
December 9 in Aurora
|
|
AURORA. – Fourth Street United Methodist Church, 551 S. Fourth St. in Aurora, will stage a live nativity pageant on at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9. “And It Came To Pass” is set for the church lawn at Fourth Street and Marion Avenue. “The public is invited to the free program,” said church pastor Rev. David Eichelberger. The production features music, dramatic lighting, and a cast of 15 church members in period costumes, portraying angels, shepherds, wise men, three kings, and Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus.
|
|
A highlight of the performance is the arrival of Mary, riding a donkey down a sidewalk, at the manger under a tent on the lawn. The production opens with music by the church’s handbell choir under the direction of Sue Gilla of Aurora. Two narrators will read the Christmas story in both English and Spanish. During the pageant, they will lead the audience in singing “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” “Away in a Manger,” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” “Joy to the World,” “We Three Kings,” “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night.”
|
|
Visitors may pet sheep, goats, and geese in a pen near the manger. Volunteers include actors and assistants for lighting, sound, and costumes. Actors range in age from an infant to senior citizens, many who have participated in previous productions. Past performances have attracted about 200 people. Fourth Street from Seminary Avenue to Marion Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic during the program. The event will conclude with free cookies and hot chocolate in the church dining hall.
|
|
The congregation has staged the production in odd-numbered years since 1981 as a yule gift to the community. The tradition of a live Nativity scene dates back to the days of St. Francis of Assisi, who wanted the poor and illiterate to experience the wonder and joy of Christ’s birth.
|
|
