St. Peter’s Lutheran program retells story of Jesus’ birth in different way
The St. Peter's Lutheran Church SuperKids Christmas program Dec. 15 tells the story of Jesus' birth but does from different perspectives. Over the past decades, the performance has used a vast collection of characters, some traditional and some not so, to share the birth of Christ with audiences. The youth, including Kross Talamantes (left), Brooklyn Levert, Ellie Veres, Bliss Talamantes and Kadin Gerth, have been rehearsing for several weeks in preparation for their show at 4 p.m. at the church, located at 1803 RR 1431 in Marble Falls. Admission is free. Courtesy photo
DANIEL CLIFTON • PICAYUNE EDITOR
MARBLE FALLS — Whether the main character is a flea or a mouse, the annual St. Peter’s Lutheran Church SuperKids Christmas production always entertains, but, more important, it reminds participants and spectators about the reason for Christmas.
The production started several decades ago at the church. While some children’s programs tell the story of Jesus’ birth as it unfolded in the New Testament, the SuperKids production often includes a cast of interesting characters, even a flea.
But in the end, no matter how outlandish the story, it always brings the performers and the audience back to Christmas.
This year’s production, “The Mouse’s Tale” at 4 p.m. Dec. 15 at the church, 1803 RR 1431, sticks with that tradition.
The play recounts that amazing night through the eyes and voices of the animals in the stable.
“We like doing these plays because it gives kids a deeper meaning of what Christmas is all about, and it gives them a chance to share that message with so many others,” said Cindy Struchen, St. Peter’s children and family ministry coordinator. “This one is narrated by a granny mouse. It’s a real fun way for kids to hear the story of Jesus’ birth again. They really enjoy it.”
The cast features youth as young as 3 through sixth grade.
Deborah Vanicek, the production’s director, strived to make sure any child who wanted a speaking part would get one. But the purpose remains the same: tell the story of Jesus’ birth while giving kids a chance to shine.
“The thing I like most about putting together a Christmas program with the children is that we are lifting up and encouraging the gifts that God has given them,” she said. “Taking the time to work with our kids and putting them front and center emphasizes their importance in our community and in God’s family.”
But it’s not just the children who give and get so much from a production such as this one.
“We adults provide them with a script, and they, in turn, tell the story of Christmas back to us, and it becomes a conversation of faith between two generations,” Vanicek added. “I think that’s why we adults love it so much. It’s the story of God’s love for us told by those we love — beautiful and filled with hope.”
Admission is free, but get there early for parking and a place to sit.
daniel@thepicayune.com