On Sunday, December 18, Holiness Tabernacle held its annual Christmas program. Although both young and old look forward to the event, no one was more excited and nervous as HTC’s youth. This was their opportunity to showcase their thespian talents, and to show their parents and the congregation how hard they had been working since October.
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After warming up the congregation with a few favorite Christmas hymns, Elder and Sister Green introduced the youngest HTC’s members. The Sunshine Band (children ages 2-12) proudly displayed the Christmas artwork they created for their parents. They then allowed the congregation a peek into what their Sunday School class is like through singing and reciting songs they had learned. They finished up by presenting birthday presents to baby Jesus, such as their hearts and their praise.
After a few more selections, it was time for the main play of the night, “The Part That is Rarely Told.” This year’s main play was written by one of Holiness Tabernacle’s own, Sister DeAnna Pruitte. Sister Pruitte penned the play over seven years ago at the age of 14.
“I wanted highlight certain parts of the Christmas story that people present inaccurately, such as the number of wise men, or the age of Jesus when they arrived. People always assume there were 3 wise men, and that they arrived at the manger scene the same time as the shepherds. That’s not what the Bible says. Jesus was actually a young child, and not a baby by the time the wise men arrived. And the Bible never mentions exactly how many wise men there were. ”
The youth performed wonderfully, providing a good mixture of humor and Bible quotation. No sooner had they sat down than a restlessness began to spread through the crowd, namely among the children and teenagers. As Pastor and First Lady Pruitte took the mic, the excitement grew tangible.
“As we do every year, it’s time to pass out presents!” declared Pastor Pruitte to the joyful audience. “No one here will leave without something in their hand.”
True to their word, every person in the congregation, whether they were young or old, member of the church, or member of the community, received a gift. When the benediction was given, several dozens of presents were distributed, and there was a smile on every face. Once again, HTC succeeded in being a blessing to all who walked through the door.
And that is the part that is rarely told.