Editors note: This is the first part in a two-part series that gives the script of a traditional Christmas Nativity Play. Next Sunday will have the remainder of the script.
My journey to Christmas takes me to the memory of when this Christmas Nativity script was first used in 1992 by the middleschool bible class at San Marcos Baptist Academy. Verbatim words written in Matthew and Luke were read and interspersed with carols sung by the whole cast, directed, along with the audience, by Alan Hamlin. Since that first “real” production I have used the script with many volunteers who acted out the Bible roles. It’s been done at Redwood Baptist Church as the Christmas program, and in other places outdoors using old bedsheets, towels, etc. as costumes with broom sticks—once a Star Wars light saber---as the shepherds’ staffs. The Wisemen have carried items like pretty boxes, jewelry, purses, etc. as the gifts. Baby Jesus is usually a doll wrapped in a scarf, but twice there was an honest-to-God real baby! Mary and Joseph are the “big Kids, teens, or willing parent’s---improvisation is the key! This year since we are distancing, masks must be added; otherwise, just read the column aloud at home and remember Christmases past! Suggestion: a family members can carry the pieces of the Nativity set as the column is read. Use a CD, or sing out the words with or without music, can be off-key but always with feeling for the meaning of the carol.
Narrator: “Luke 2:1-20. 1. And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. 2. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3. And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city. 4. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem (because he was of the house and lineage of David.) 5. To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.”
