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Holy Redeemer by the Sea Catholic Church held its annual open air living nativity production Sunday evening, December 11, 2022.

This year marks the 18^th season of the living nativity at the church. Play coordinator Susan Silbernagel said they offer it because “it gives a good sense of the true meaning of Christmas. It’s not about presents or Santa, it’s about the birth of our Lord.”

About 30 people participated to make the story come to life. Beyond the actors, several people worked behind the scenes to coordinate the blocking, lead rehearsals, run lights and prepare the costumes.

Songs guided the show, with each traditional Christmas carol telling a part of the story. The crowd scattered throughout the church lawn sang along with the actors. Mary and Joseph opened the story, followed by the arrival of the angels, the shepherds, the townspeople and the three wise men.

In the final song, everyone in the show raised their hands in praise and sang Joy to the World together.

Silbernagel, who directed the show for the second time, said it was a good turnout. “I feel like it’s intimate enough so people get the true meaning of what we’re portraying.” Next year she hopes to extend the show, perhaps adding live readings and additional songs from the church choir.

After the show, the audience was invited to come inside for hot cocoa, cookies, a visit from Santa and “just a little bit of fellowship inside where it’s warm,” she added.

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