by Elka Worner
Heralding a message of peace and love, angels, shepherds, and preschool singers shared the stage with Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus at the annual St. Cross Episcopal Church Christmas Pageant on Sunday, December 17.
The production, which features parish children and teenagers, has been an annual church tradition since the 1950s.
“The Christmas Pageant holds a special place in my heart as our family has been a part of its magic for generations,” said longtime parishioner Michelle Weissenberg, whose great grandmother, grandmother, and mother had roles in earlier productions.
Weissenberg’s college-aged daughters, Madi and Ellie, have carried on the tradition, playing everything from baby Jesus to the Pink Angel, bell ringers and eventually Mary. This year, Madi handled lighting and Ellie did make-up. Parishioner Jess Gregg also worked on make-up, creating glittery angels and dust covered shepherds.
The deeply spiritual play follows the original 1950s script. It was directed by two high school students, Adam Tittle and Amia Tsai, and narrated by Ben Tittle. Baby Jesus was played by a calm and peaceful Roger Albitz, lovingly held in the arms of Mary, played by Reece Shott. There was even a live camel played by golden retriever George the dog.
Weissenberg said the play is a celebration of the birth of Jesus and a powerful symbol of her faith.
“It is truly a tradition in our family that makes the season even brighter,” she said.
