Scratch Nativity

‘‘for ever and ever, A-men’ … a small voice piped above the others at the end of the Priory Scratch Nativity.

And what a joyful occasion it was!

Mary, Joseph, Angel Gabriel and a host of angels, a veritable flock of shepherds, four kings and a donkey with well worn knees delighted the Priory congregation with a retelling of the greatest story of all time.

The congregation enthusiastically joined in with the actions for ‘Holy holy holy’ and ‘Help, help, help’ - quite a workout! No-one minded when everyone got a bit muddled up with the actions, it all added to the Christmas charm, laughter and joy.

And at the end of the service, the four dogs who had attended, patiently, came to the front for their own special blessing, remembering how Jesus was born in a stable, where animals sheltered.

The final music ‘Come and join the celebration’ became an impromptu dance for some of the angels and shepherds, who shared afterwards that they’re expecting Father Christmas to visit tonight. May he bring the peace and joy of the Christ-child to us all.