Time-honored community event returns Dec. 14 in Downtown Portland
PORTLAND – The 99th annual Pageant of the Nativity will take place at First Parish Unitarian Universalist at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14 at 425 Congress St. First performed in 1926, this beloved event incorporates organ and choral music, historic narrative and over 50 actors in non-speaking roles. Together, they create a tableau of the nativity scene, inspired by the work of 15th century artist Fra Angelico, while Rev. Norman Allen narrates the birth story of one of history’s great prophets. Cast members are adorned in vibrant fabrics, some of which date back to the first performance and were brought back from the Holy Land by the nieces of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The candlelit Meeting House serves as a solemn backdrop to this special event.
As First Parish’s gift to the community, the event is offered free of charge. Voluntary donations, which help defray the cost of the production and support the mission of the church, will be gratefully accepted.
Rev. Allen commented, “The warm, candle-lit nature of the Nativity Pageant has made it a core element of the holidays in Portland for almost a century. Every year, we quote Unitarian educator Sophia Lyon Fahs, who reminds us that, ‘Each night a child is born is a holy night.’ Now, more than ever, we need that reminder of the holiness that connects each of us to all of humanity.”
What: First Parish Unitarian Universalist Pageant of the Nativity
Where: The Historic Meeting House at 425 Congress St., Portland
When: Sunday, Dec. 14 at 5 p.m.
Cost: Donations accepted
For more information: 207-415-7875
A member congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association, First Parish has served the Portland community for more than three centuries. The congregation practices a liberal religion that affirms the “inherent dignity and worthiness” of all people and advocates for a “free and responsible search for truth and meaning.” Recent inclusion initiatives include a plaque and regular mentions in worship services noting early church leaders’ complicity in the attempted genocide of Wabanaki people and the installation of an elevator, making the historic building more accessible to people with disabilities. Worship services are offered every Sunday at 10 a.m., with additional services for special occasions throughout the year. For more information, visit www.firstparishportland.org or call 207-773-5747.
