The Nativity / Putz Putz at Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem, Pa. The first nativity scene originated in Italy in 1223 when St. Francis of Assisi asked a villager to create a live scene depicting … Read More
Dec. 8 Songs and Activities
Who’s the baby? Who’s the babysleeping soundlyin his littlemanger bed? (Put your left thumb in the center of your open left palm for “Jesus”) Why, it’s Jesus,baby Jesus.Shall we touchhis tiny head? (Stroke your thumb … Read More
Dec. 9 Storytime
Amazing Peace by Maya Angelou A message of peace and spirit that can be passed throughout the community through Advent season and beyond, Originally read at the 2005 White House Tree Lighting ceremony and published … Read More
Dec. 10 Listen to the Bible Story
We love to tell the story… Growing up one of my favorite parts of Christmas decorating was setting up our nativity scenes around the house. I always scrutinized the set up, where the camels should … Read More
Dec. 11 Crafts
Graham Cracker Nativity Materials needed: 1 pound butter box (tape the open end of the box and cut in half – this will give you two boxes); sturdy paper plate frosting graham crackers pretzels coconut … Read More
Dec. 12 Family Devotions
3nd Week of Advent – JOY (December 12) Materials needed: 1 pkg of Mentos 2-liter of Diet Coke piece of paper. *plan to take a drive and see nearby Christmas lights at the end of … Read More
Dec. 13 Christmas Near and Far
Week 3: JOY (December 13) Stories for the family…by the Rev. Nasel Ephraim JubilationOverYonder Joy to the worlds the Lord is come, (in your best, most boisterous singing voice) is a carol that can be … Read More
Dec. 14 Customs & Traditions: Lights, Poinsettia
The Christmas Tree The Christmas tree is a wonderful sign of God’s love and faithfulness. Never losing its green color, the Christmas tree reminds us of God’s steadfast love. Germany is credited with starting the … Read More
Dec. 15 Songs and Activities
The Animals “Shhh!” mooed the cow all cinnamon brown (put finger to lips)“Come to our stable, come bow down!” (fold hands)“Shhh!” baaed the sheep so shaggy and white, (Put finger to lips)“A baby’s been born … Read More
Dec. 16 Storytime
Who Built the Stable by Ashley Bryan, Simon & Schuster 2012 Who built the stable where Jesus lay? Multiple “Coretta Scott King Award” winner Ashley Bryan has a very good idea in this beautiful and … Read More