This favourite photo sits on my bookcase, memories of a special nativity 13 years ago when my youngest son James was four. He is pictured as a shepherd kneeling in the front Nativity 1996row with the striped sheet wrapped round his head.

It was taken during a unique nativity service  in St Laurence’s Church, Wicken, a neighbouring village. I remember the magic of this particular service, with pews crammed full of festive families and smiling children.

The belfry was transformed into a stable, complete with straw and animals; a sheep and a donkey, from memory. One of the newest babies in the village was cast as Jesus, with his parents as Mary and Joseph.

As the children arrived, they were assigned roles and costumes and acted out the story of the nativity totally unrehearsed to carols; there were at least six regal kings, a dozen sweet angels, and maybe two or three shepherds.

This service is held every Christmas Eve and the last time I went two years ago – my sons have sadly outgrown it – the nativity was centered around the front the church, but there was no stable or animals. Perhaps health and safety.

If you  have special nativity memories, do share them.

I wish you all the very best for a happy Christmas with your loved ones and a peaceful, prosperous and healthy New Year.

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