In a tradition dating back to at least Francis of Assisi, Faith Evangelical Free Church held a live Nativity entitled “The First Christmas” on Sunday, Dec. 15 at 4 p.m., in the back parking lot of the church. The 20 minute play combined narration and alliteration with actors and live animals to retell the Christmas story for attendees.
Based in the Gospel accounts of Matthew and Luke and narrated in turns by Lisa Smoczyk and Lois Walters, the Nativity play included music and live animals, the latter provided by Lorraine Westaby. Songs for the play performance included Away in a Manger and We Three Kings by the Cedarmont Kids, It’s about the Cross by Go Fish. and a Christmas Angels Instrumental by Michael W. Smith from YouTube JV Creazion Karaoke.
Included in the cast and characters for the Nativity Play Dec. 15 were Mary (Jaxon Stokes), Joseph (Charlie Poehls), two innkeepers (Chloe Migala and Adelyn Natzke), three shepherds (Nolan Alger, Callen Samplawski, and Benson Stumpner), the Angel Gabriel (Amira Bartelt), a choir of angels (Evie Migala, Avaya Walters, Hinley Mertens and Victoria Damiani), a Bethlehem resident (Layna Voldberg), a Roman solider (T.J. Tobola), stable helpers (Gavin Natzke, Roman Damiani, and Bennett Rucker), three kings (Corrin Bartelt, Torben Bartelt, and Boden Swope) and King Herod (William Tobola).
A manger (food trough) held the star of the show.
Supporting the Nativity Play was a backstage crew that included music director (Tricia Tobola), coordinator (Jaime Barth), Angel Dance choreographer (Kate Bartelt), sound and lights (Brent Hanson) and Construction Crew (Bill Badzinksi, Matt Badzinski, and Lenny Barth).
“Many thanks to those who donated treat and to the youth for serving refreshments and for all the moms and dads helping out where needed,” Nativity Play Director Laurie Thain shared. “We love you and your kids. It is our prayer you enjoyed our program. Our gift to Jesus and you!”