Versatile -- "ready-to-use" -- no memorization required. Just what the volunteer ordered.

This program is appropriate for Christmas Eve or any Sunday morning in Advent. Involving children of all ages and one adult, it can be used in any size church with a few participants or many. Two versions -- a longer version intended for a full-length service and a shortened version to be used in place of a sermon -- are also included.

Symbols of Christmas (a tree, ornaments, candy canes, a crechè and more) are combined with biblical readings and brief dialogue to create a greater understanding of Christian traditions. While the narrative dialogue is being read, a silent, active nativity scene is shown to illustrate the first Christmas present ever. (Copying privileges included.)

Sherry Sanders holds degrees in arts and education from Victoria College and the University of Houston. She has taught kindergarten, first grade, fourth grade, and reading. She lives in Yorktown, Texas, with her husband, two daughters and son.