On Saturday, Dec. 13, the Youth Praise Center at Christ Church Plano was filled to overflowing for the 2025 Children’s Christmas Pageant—an 11 a.m. retelling of the Nativity led by children from preschool through fifth grade.
Coordinated by Father Travis Wilson, many parents, volunteers, and our Family Ministry team, the pageant brought together dozens of children to share the story of Jesus’ birth with sincerity, joy, and a holy kind of wonder that only children can offer.
Backstage and in nearby classrooms, anticipation buzzed as angels adjusted shimmering halos, shepherds practiced holding their staffs just so, and a particularly enthusiastic group of sheep prepared for their moment to shine.
When the pageant began, Bishop Paul Donison narrated the story, guiding the congregation through the familiar arc of Scripture: the prophets who foretold the Messiah’s coming; Mary and Joseph journeying toward Bethlehem; the Angel of the Lord and the heavenly host proclaiming good news; shepherds hastening to see the child; King Herod and the three wise men; and finally, all gathered around the newborn King.
This year’s cast included one of the largest groups of angels yet, their white robes and silver halos filling the stage as they declared God’s glory.
Throughout the telling, spontaneous moments reminded everyone that this was not just a performance, but a living, joyful act of worship. At times, the enthusiastic “baaas” of the little sheep rang out—occasionally even over the hymns being sung—prompting laughter, smiles, and audible “awwws” from the congregation.
As the story unfolded, many in the audience wiped away tears. Watching these beloved children act out the birth of the promised Messiah echoed Jesus’ own words: “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14). In their earnest voices, careful movements, and unfiltered delight, we were all reminded that the kingdom of heaven is in our midst and we are part of this ongoing story of salvation.
Following the pageant, families gathered for a cookie-and-cider reception, lingering in fellowship and gratitude.
In the end, the Children’s Christmas Pageant did what it has always done so beautifully: it slowed the season, centered hearts on the miracle of the Incarnation, and allowed the church to behold the good news of great joy—this time, through the voices and faces of its youngest members.
