Christmas Musicals for Church
Issue link: http://read.jwpepper.com/i/143254
112 · Narration Each church will decide whether to have both the shepherds and Magi worship at the manger together or independently. If you have decided to have the Magi visit the Christ Child alone, the shepherds can unobtrusively exit before the beginning of "The Treasure." You can also remove the manger and have the Magi arrive when Jesus is approximately two years old. In either case, during this short narration, the Magi should kneel before Jesus in worship. · Pretty Little Baby Child This upbeat, lightly Caribbean song of praise will create an atmosphere of joy and rejoicing at the birth of the King of Kings! You might want to bring out a group of children to help the audience enter into the full spirit of the number. They can play simple rhythm instruments or perform simple movement. (If you use very young children, you can also dress them as angels.) This is another number that could be interpreted by a worship dance team. · Narration The focus now shifts to the contemporary message of the musical. The Biblical figures should slowly leave the platform area. The narrator can walk directly to the manger or stand by the gifts of the Magi to deliver this straight-to-the-heart narration. It segues directly into the following song. · The Jesus Gift This beloved classic has been beautifully arranged for a soloist – with optional choir. You're encouraged to let your soloist perform this moving number as a true solo and make a direct connection with the audience. After the conclusion, the pastor may offer a short message, an invitation, or a time of prayer. If the audience has been invited to bring "gifts" (donations for the needy) to the performance, this is when they can be collected. · Child Narration This time of prayer, reflection and worship is concluded by a simple recitation of Christina Rossetti's elegant poem, "What Shall I Give Him?" It is suggested that this poem be recited by a child. The child can emerge from the audience or stand with the narrator. · Christmas Glory (Finale) The narrator and child can deliver the final declarative narration together. This narration can also be easily reconfigured into a responsive reading: Narrator: Unto us a Child is born! The People: Unto us a Son is given! All: Glory to God in the highest for His unspeakable gift! The final choral offering is a time for corporate celebration. If you have used any movement teams, children, or Biblical actors, they can return to the platform at this time for the finale.