You come and sit in a pew, the church aglow with the Christmas decorations and a buzz of excitement hums through the crowd. It’s Christmas Eve, and as families disrobe their coats, scarves, and hats, eager children await in the back, ready to play their parts.  

As the anxious Mary, Joseph, wise men, and nativity make their way in front of the crowd, an air of medieval nostalgia rings throughout the church; unbeknownst to the festive group, this tradition is nothing new.

———

Italy, 1223 

Monks fill the abbey, peering up at the holly-adorned walls.  

The late-evening sunlight filters through vibrant stained glass, causing the colors to spill over lengthy tables, filling the empty spaces.  

Monks line the walls, ready to devour the boar’s head, mince pies, and even gingerbread sitting atop the tables.  

However, the thing they most highly await, is the spectacle that is to come at midnight mass. 

In a cave in the town of Greccio, Italy, eager onlookers await in a cave, where a manger filled with straw accompanies live animals, such as ox and donkey.  

Reportedly, a baby appeared in the empty manger and was embraced by St. Francis. Additionally, women in hardship and animals were supposedly healed from the straw that was in the manger.  

———-

To this day, Christmas pageants remain a staple during the holiday season. Make sure to stop by St.Paul’s own twist of the classic, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!”

Check your emails from Mrs. Nicholas! The show is at 6 p.m. on December 11, and at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. (alumni show) on December 13.

Merry Christmas!