If there are children in the congregation and adults who enjoy “performing,” invite them ahead of time to pantomime the Luke 2 story. (Everyone can wear slacks and a turtleneck shirt.) Designate the lead adult angel (Gabriel), lead adult shepherd, adult Mary, and adult Joseph several weeks prior to Christmas Eve.

Since there is no rehearsal, ask the lead characters to arrive fifteen minutes early in costume and go over space, props, and costumes for other participants. Masking tape on the floor, labeled for each role, is helpful. A manger can be set in the chancel as a visual focal point. A doll can be hidden close by. (If you do not want the mess of straw, use some colorful blankets of fabric.)

Haloes, shepherd staffs, and toy sheep can be laid out on the back pew to be picked up as ch…