St. Hilda’s Anglican Church is inviting children and families of all backgrounds and traditions to take part in their first drop-in Christmas Pageant on Christmas Eve this year.
Children and parents who volunteer for the pageant will be dressed up as shepherds and angels and together they will slowly build up the nativity scene for those who come to watch, sing carols and see the miracle unfold. The pageant will conclude with a child-friendly communion service.
“The first recorded Christmas pageant was organized by St. Francis of Assisi during the 13th century and it was conducted outdoors with live animals,” said St. Hilda’s Anglican Church Rev. Clarence Li.
“Over the years the Christmas pageant has evolved into many different forms, from pantomime to full-scale dramatic presentation. Still one thing holds true: the Christmas story never ceases to ignite joy and hope among those who gaze onto the child in the manger. And in a year when so many around the world and in our own backyard are homeless and longing for a home, the timeless story of the homeless Mary and Joseph finding new life and hope in a manger brings new meaning.”
Coasters who want to take part need no rehearsal, church membership or special qualifications, just a desire to be part of the Christmas story for an hour on Christmas Eve. There are no lines to memorize and St. Hilda’s has lots of costumes to fit adults and kids of all sizes.
Interested pageant participants should arrive at St. Hilda’s at 6:30 p.m. for costume fitting.
The one-hour pageant and Christmas service will start at 7 p.m. and guests are asked to arrive a bit early to secure their seats.
St. Hilda’s Anglican Church is located at 5838 Barnacle St. in Sechelt beside Rockwood Centre. For more information, call St. Hilda’s at 604-885-5019.
