Do You Hear What I Hear?
Worship
Christmas Treasures
A Collection Of Congregational Resources For Advent And Christmas
Contents
Worship Bulletin
Christmas Program
Leader's Helps
Sunday School Christmas Program
Do You Hear What I Hear?
(Name of Church)
(Date and Time)
Prelude
Fifth Graders
"Jingle Bells"
Scene 1: Mr. Greedy's Department Store
Scene 2: Nazareth
Third Graders
"It Came Upon A Midnight Clear"
Fourth Graders
"O Come, All Ye Faithful"
Third and Fourth Graders
"O Little Town Of Bethlehem"
Congregation
"O Little Town Of Bethlehem"
For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars together, proclaim the holy birth,
And praises sing to God the king and peace to all the earth!
How silently, how silently the wondrous gift is giv'n!
So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of his heav'n.
No ear may hear his coming; but, in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him,
still the dear Christ enters in.
Scene 3: Bethlehem Inn
Second Graders
"Angels We Have Heard On High"
Scene 4: Bethlehem Stable
Second Graders
"Angels We Have Heard On High"
Congregation
"Oh, Come, Little Children"
Oh, come, little children, oh, come, one and all,
To Bethlehem haste to the manger so small.
God's Son for a gift has been sent you this night
To be your Redeemer, your Joy and Delight.
See Mary and Joseph, with love-beaming eyes,
Are gazing upon the rude bed where he lies,
The shepherds are kneeling, with hearts full of love,
While angels sing loud alleluias above.
First Graders, Preschool, and Kindergartners
"Joy To The World!"
First Graders, Preschool, and Kindergartners
"The First Noel"
Congregation
"We Three Kings"
We three kings of Orient are,
Bearing gifts we traverse afar
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.
O star of wonder, star of night.
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding.
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Glorious now behold him arise,
King and God and Sacrifice;
Alleluia, alleluia!
Earth to heaven replies.
O star of wonder, star of night.
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding.
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Youth and Congregation
"Away In A Manger"
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus lay down his sweet head,
The stars in the sky looked down where he lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.
The cattle are lowing, the poor baby wakes,
But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.
I love thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky.
And stay by my cradle 'til morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care.
And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.
Sunday School Superintendent
All Youth
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
Sunday School Superintendent
Congregation
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
Hark! the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled."
Joyful all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th' angelic host proclaim,
"Christ is born in Bethlehem."
Hark, the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King."
*Join us for cookies and beverage.
Do You Hear What I Hear?
(Program And Script)
Prelude
(Fifth Graders dressed in hats and scarves and ringing bells enter from side, singing "Jingle Bells.")
"Jingle Bells"
Dashing through the snow, in a one-horse open sleigh
O'er the fields we go, laughing all the way. Ha, ha, ha!
Bells on bob-tail ring, making spirits bright,
What fun it is to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight.
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.
Youth 1: Are you ready for some Christmas fun tonight?
Youth 2: I'm set. But listen.
Youth 3: What's that you hear?
Youth 2: I don't know, but I distinctly hear something out of the ordinary.
Youth 1: Well, I hear sleigh bells.
(Youth in choir rings sleigh bells.)
Youth 3: Me, too. The horses are ready to go, so let's set off on our journey.
Youth 2: But I hear something more. There's just more to this night than a sleigh ride.
Youth 1: Well, Christmas is a time for fun! For sleigh rides and presents and songs.
Youth 2: But I'm serious. I hear something more.
Youth 3: You mean like there's more to this night than a good time?
Youth 2: I think so, but let's dash out of here and see what this night holds.
(Group leaves singing "Jingle Bells." Leaves three teachers dressed as clerks behind who stay in front and three narrators who move to the side.)
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh,
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.
(Sign -- "Mr. Greedy's Department Store." Clerks wear red, green, or Christmas aprons and hats. One carries a money bag.)
Clerk 1: Ding, ding. Ding, ding. Just listen to those cash registers go ding, ding.
Clerk 2: That's what Christmas is about, isn't it? (Sings) Do you hear what I hear?
Clerk 1: Yes, I hear the sound of money in our pockets. Christmas is a great season to make money. (Jingles money bag.)
Clerk 3: But I hear something more. Can't you hear it calling out there?
Clerk 1: (Feels forehead of other clerk) Are you well? Maybe you've got some seasonal bug.
Clerk 3: No, I think you two have a seasonal bug called "greed." I think there's more to this season than spending, spending, and spending. I just hear something more.
Clerk 2: Sure, there's more. It's getting, getting, getting!
Clerk 3: I think you're listening to the wrong Christmas spirit.
Clerk 1: So what is it you want us to hear this Christmas season?
Clerk 3: I bet we can hear a different message if we travel back in time to when it all began. Are you game?
Clerk 1: Why not?
Clerk 2: Let's go!
Clerk 3: And Church, listen to the voice of Christmas as it calls to you this night.
(Clerks and Sign Board leave.)
Traveling Music
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
(Sign -- "Nazareth." Joseph enters from side and lays down pretending to sleep.)
Narrator 1: Long ago in the city of Nazareth a miracle was about to occur.
(Angel enters from back door and approaches the sleeping Joseph. Touches him. Joseph rises.)
Narrator 2: Mary and Joseph were engaged to be married when Mary discovered she was pregnant. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph one night and told him:
Angel: Joseph, son of David, don't be afraid to take Mary as your wife because the baby in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus, because he will save his people from sin.
(Angel leaves. Mary enters from the side and Joseph goes to her.)
Joseph: Mary, come and hear what I have just heard. (Whispers in her ear)
Mary: Praise God, Joseph! You have heard what I heard. Blessed is the Lord who will bring us salvation. But listen, I hear the voices of young children coming to share our joy this night.
Traveling Music
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
(Third Graders dressed as angels enter to traveling music. They take their place to sing.)
"It Came Upon A Midnight Clear"
It came upon the midnight clear,
That glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth
To touch their harps of gold:
"Peace on the earth, good will to men,
From heaven's all-gracious King!"
The world in solemn stillness lay
To hear the angels sing.
Still through the cloven skies they come
With peaceful wings unfurled;
And still their heavenly music floats
O'er all the weary world
Above its sad and lowly plains
They bend on hovering wing,
And ever over its Babel sounds
The blessed angels sing.
Narrator 3: At this same time Caesar gave an order to all the people that they must register in their hometowns. Joseph was from Bethlehem and so he and Mary set out for the city.
(Mary and Joseph move behind or around the group and walk out in front of them pretending to be traveling, then exit.)
Traveling Music
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
(Fourth Graders dressed as angels enter to traveling music. They walk up the middle to stand in front to sing "O Come, All Ye Faithful.")
"O Come, All Ye Faithful"
O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant,
O come ye, o come ye to Bethlehem!
Come and behold him, born the King of angels!
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation!
Sing all ye citizens of heaven above!
Glory to God, all glory in the highest!
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Narrator 2: Let us go to Bethlehem now.
(Fourth Grade and Third Grade sing verse 1 of "O Little Town of Bethlehem.")
"O Little Town of Bethlehem"
O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by;
Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light.
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
Narrator 2: Congregation, join us in singing the rest of this carol as our youth depart.
(Congregation joins in verses 2 and 3 as Fourth and Third Grades leave.)
Congregation
For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars together, proclaim the holy birth,
And praises sing to God the king and peace to all the earth!
How silently, how silently the wondrous gift is giv'n!
So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of his heav'n.
No ear may hear his coming; but, in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him still
The dear Christ enters in.
(While the congregation is singing, Mary and Joseph enter again. Three innkeepers enter and take their places in front. Sign -- "Bethlehem.")
Narrator 1: No ear may hear his coming ...
Narrator 2: But in this world of sin ...
Narrator 3: Where meek souls will receive him still, the dear Christ enters in.
Narrator 1: Let us pray. Lord Jesus, we come to you with ears hearing the story of your birth. Help us to respond to your voice calling us to come to you. We open our hearts to receive you anew. Come into our hearts, Lord Jesus. In your precious name we pray. Amen.
Narrator 2: But back to our story. After walking for some time, Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem and began to search for a place to spend the night.
Traveling Music
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
(Joseph walks to first innkeeper. Motions to Mary, but the first innkeeper just shakes his head "no" at Joseph's request and walks off stage. Joseph and Mary move to the second who throws up hands, shakes head, and leaves. Couple hang heads, then move to the pulpit to take place for dialogue with third innkeeper who has moved to the lectern. While this is happening, Second Graders dressed as angels enter from the back of the church to traveling music. Youth enters with sign -- "Stable." Another carries a manger and puts it down. Second Graders take their place and sing "Angels We Have Heard On High.")
"Angels We Have Heard On High"
Angels we have heard on high,
Sweetly singing o'er the plains;
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous songs prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be
Which inspire your heavenly song?
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Joseph: Sir, please help us. We've traveled a long way, and we need a room.
Innkeeper: I am sorry, but I have no rooms. It's census time, and the city is bursting with all the people coming to be counted by the Roman government.
Joseph: Please sir, my wife is pregnant, and there is no place for us to stay. Hear our cries for help.
Innkeeper: (Scratches the side of his face and sighs) Well, if you would like, you could spend the night in my stable. (Points to stable)
Joseph: That will work just fine. Thank you!
(Second Grade sings final verse of "Angels We Have Heard On High.")
Come to Bethlehem, and see
Him whose birth the angels sing;
Come adore on bended knee,
Christ the Lord, our newborn King.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
(Second Graders return to seats while pianist continues to play "Angels We Have Heard On High." Mary and Joseph go to the stable and sit. Manger is brought out.)
Mary: UOOOH! (Hugs middle as in labor) Joseph, I think that it's time for the baby to be born! Let's have the congregation join us in a song of celebration, "Oh, Come, Little Children."
Congregation
"Oh, Come, Little Children"
Oh, come, little children, oh, come, one and all,
To Bethlehem haste to the manger so small.
God's Son for a gift has been sent you this night
To be your Redeemer, your Joy and Delight.
See Mary and Joseph, with love-beaming eyes,
Are gazing upon the rude bed where he lies,
The shepherds are kneeling, with hearts full of love,
While angels sing loud alleluias above.
(Mary and Joseph go off stage. Pianist changes traveling music as Preschool and Kindergarten children, dressed in lamb ears or other animal headbands, enter with First Graders with gold garland around heads. Youth gather together in front to sing.)
Narrator 2: What joy young children bring. Hear them as they sing!
(Groups sing "Joy To The World!")
"Joy To The World!"
Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive its King.
Let every heart, prepare him room.
And heav'n and nature sing,
And heav'n and nature sing,
And heav'n and nature sing.
He rules the earth with truth and love,
And makes the nations see
The glories of his righteousness,
And wonders of his love,
And wonders of his love,
And wonders of his love.
Narrator 2: What joy came into our world that night. The earth praised God as the light of the world entered our darkness.
(First Graders and Preschool and Kindergartners sing "The First Noel.")
"The First Noel"
The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter's night that was so deep.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.
And by the light of that same star,
Three wise men came from country far;
To seek for a King was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went.
(Star appears held up high or light up above youth.)
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.
Narrator 1: Church, are you hearing the message of Christmas? Let us rejoice in the youth who have shared this message with us. Join us in singing "We Three Kings."
(Youth exit. Youth with star stays. Congregation sings verses 1 and 4 of "We Three Kings." Mary and Joseph go down in front with manger. Three Wise Men enter from side with their gifts. Take place in back of Mary and Joseph.)
Congregation
"We Three Kings"
We three kings of Orient are,
Bearing gifts we traverse afar
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.
O star of wonder, star of night.
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding.
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Glorious now behold him arise,
King and God and Sacrifice;
Alleluia, alleluia!
Earth to heaven replies.
O star of wonder, star of night.
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding.
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Narrator 3: At the same time three Wise Men were traveling through the desert when they saw a star high in the eastern sky.
Wise Man 1: Look! It's the star of the King! (Points to star)
Wise Man 2: Come on; let's follow it!
Narrator 1: Mary had given birth to our Savior, Jesus Christ. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and placed him in a manger.
(Mary places baby Jesus in the manger. Joseph stands next to her.)
Wise Man 3: We have brought gifts of gold (Pauses as Wise Man 1 kneels and hands to Mary), frankincense (Pauses as Wise Man 2 kneels and hands to Mary), and myrrh for the child born a king (Kneels and gives to Mary).
Narrator 2: Yes, Jesus is the one born King of kings. Hear the Word of the Lord concerning his reign.
Narrator 3: "A child has been born to us; God has given a son to us. He will be responsible for leading the people. His name will be Wonderful Counselor, Powerful God, Father Who Lives Forever, Prince of Peace. Power and peace will be in his kingdom and will continue to grow forever. He will rule as king on David's throne and over David's kingdom. He will make it strong by ruling with justice and goodness from now on and forever. The Lord All-Powerful will do this because of his strong love for his people." A reading from the prophet Isaiah, chapter 9, verses 6-7 (New Century Version).
Sunday School Superintendent: I wish to thank all our youth who made this a night filled with hearing God's story of his great love for all of us. So let's welcome all our youth back as they come to share in our final number. Let's sing "Away In A Manger."
(All youth enter and take their place as congregation sings "Away In A Manger." Oldest youth first, fill in as groups with youngest ones in front. Mary and Joseph and Wise Men stay in front.)
"Away In A Manger"
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus lay down his sweet head,
The stars in the sky looked down where he lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.
The cattle are lowing, the poor baby wakes,
But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.
I love thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky.
And stay by my cradle 'til morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care.
And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.
Sunday School Superintendent: Do you hear what our youth have told you of this Christmas? The joy that floods our hearts is not one that comes from sleigh rides, or purchasing gifts, or getting gifts. It is receiving the Lord Jesus Christ into our hearts. Do you hear what I hear, Church? Listen as our youth share their final song, "Do You Hear What I Hear?"
Youth
"Do You Hear What I Hear?" (Copyright words and music by Noel Regney and Gloria Shayne; Hal Leonard, publisher)
Sunday School Superintendent: Did you hear what we heard? We pray you did. Go in the name of the Child of Bethlehem who loves you and has come to bring you salvation. Join us for cookies and beverage. Now let's all sing "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing."
Traveling Music (Sung by youth and congregation)
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
Hark! the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled."
Joyful all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th' angelic host proclaim,
"Christ is born in Bethlehem."
Hark, the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King."
Traveling Music
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
Leader's Helps
Fifth Grade
• Song: "Jingle Bells"
• Dressed in hats with scarves
• Carry sleigh bells to ring
Third Grade
• Song: "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear"
• Song: "O Little Town of Bethlehem," verse 1
• Dressed as angels or in nice outfits with gold garland around heads
Fourth Grade
• Song: "O, Come All Ye Faithful"
• Song: "O Little Town of Bethlehem," verse 1
• Dressed as angels or in nice outfits with gold garland around heads
Second Grade
• Song: "Angels We Have Heard On High"
• Dressed as angels or in nice outfits with gold garland around heads
Preschool and Kindergarten
• Song: "Joy To The World"
• Song: Refrain of "The First Noel"
• Dressed as animals (headbands with ears such as sheep; may blacken noses)
First Grade
• Song: "Joy To The World"
• Song: "The First Noel," verses 1 and 2
• Dressed as shepherds
All groups
• "Do You Hear What I Hear?"
Participants
• Use youth musicians and teachers or other special music in prelude
• Pianist
• Sunday School Superintendent
• Youth 1, 2, and 3
• Clerks 1, 2, and 3
• Can be teachers
• Wear green, red, or Christmas aprons
• One carries money and money bag
• Money bag
• Narrators 1, 2, and 3
• Angel
• Joseph
• Mary
• 3 Innkeepers (two don't speak)
• 3 Wise Men (carry three gifts)
Other Props
Signs
• Mr. Greedy's Department Store
• Nazareth
• Bethlehem
• Stable
Manger
Bench for Mary and Joseph
Star
May use a star and a stable backdrop
Congregational Songs:
• "O Little Town Of Bethlehem," verses 2 and 3
• "Oh, Come, Little Children," verses 1 and 3
• "We Three Kings Of Orient Are," verses 1 and 5
• "Away In A Manger"
• "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," verse 1
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
Secure sheet music for tune and permission to copy from copyright holder. Copyright words and music by Noel Regney and Gloria Shayne (Hal Leonard, publisher). Obtain music for your use.
Worship Bulletin
Christmas Program
Leader's Helps
Sunday School Christmas Program
Do You Hear What I Hear?
(Name of Church)
(Date and Time)
Prelude
Fifth Graders
"Jingle Bells"
Scene 1: Mr. Greedy's Department Store
Scene 2: Nazareth
Third Graders
"It Came Upon A Midnight Clear"
Fourth Graders
"O Come, All Ye Faithful"
Third and Fourth Graders
"O Little Town Of Bethlehem"
Congregation
"O Little Town Of Bethlehem"
For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars together, proclaim the holy birth,
And praises sing to God the king and peace to all the earth!
How silently, how silently the wondrous gift is giv'n!
So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of his heav'n.
No ear may hear his coming; but, in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him,
still the dear Christ enters in.
Scene 3: Bethlehem Inn
Second Graders
"Angels We Have Heard On High"
Scene 4: Bethlehem Stable
Second Graders
"Angels We Have Heard On High"
Congregation
"Oh, Come, Little Children"
Oh, come, little children, oh, come, one and all,
To Bethlehem haste to the manger so small.
God's Son for a gift has been sent you this night
To be your Redeemer, your Joy and Delight.
See Mary and Joseph, with love-beaming eyes,
Are gazing upon the rude bed where he lies,
The shepherds are kneeling, with hearts full of love,
While angels sing loud alleluias above.
First Graders, Preschool, and Kindergartners
"Joy To The World!"
First Graders, Preschool, and Kindergartners
"The First Noel"
Congregation
"We Three Kings"
We three kings of Orient are,
Bearing gifts we traverse afar
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.
O star of wonder, star of night.
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding.
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Glorious now behold him arise,
King and God and Sacrifice;
Alleluia, alleluia!
Earth to heaven replies.
O star of wonder, star of night.
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding.
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Youth and Congregation
"Away In A Manger"
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus lay down his sweet head,
The stars in the sky looked down where he lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.
The cattle are lowing, the poor baby wakes,
But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.
I love thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky.
And stay by my cradle 'til morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care.
And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.
Sunday School Superintendent
All Youth
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
Sunday School Superintendent
Congregation
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
Hark! the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled."
Joyful all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th' angelic host proclaim,
"Christ is born in Bethlehem."
Hark, the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King."
*Join us for cookies and beverage.
Do You Hear What I Hear?
(Program And Script)
Prelude
(Fifth Graders dressed in hats and scarves and ringing bells enter from side, singing "Jingle Bells.")
"Jingle Bells"
Dashing through the snow, in a one-horse open sleigh
O'er the fields we go, laughing all the way. Ha, ha, ha!
Bells on bob-tail ring, making spirits bright,
What fun it is to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight.
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.
Youth 1: Are you ready for some Christmas fun tonight?
Youth 2: I'm set. But listen.
Youth 3: What's that you hear?
Youth 2: I don't know, but I distinctly hear something out of the ordinary.
Youth 1: Well, I hear sleigh bells.
(Youth in choir rings sleigh bells.)
Youth 3: Me, too. The horses are ready to go, so let's set off on our journey.
Youth 2: But I hear something more. There's just more to this night than a sleigh ride.
Youth 1: Well, Christmas is a time for fun! For sleigh rides and presents and songs.
Youth 2: But I'm serious. I hear something more.
Youth 3: You mean like there's more to this night than a good time?
Youth 2: I think so, but let's dash out of here and see what this night holds.
(Group leaves singing "Jingle Bells." Leaves three teachers dressed as clerks behind who stay in front and three narrators who move to the side.)
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh,
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.
(Sign -- "Mr. Greedy's Department Store." Clerks wear red, green, or Christmas aprons and hats. One carries a money bag.)
Clerk 1: Ding, ding. Ding, ding. Just listen to those cash registers go ding, ding.
Clerk 2: That's what Christmas is about, isn't it? (Sings) Do you hear what I hear?
Clerk 1: Yes, I hear the sound of money in our pockets. Christmas is a great season to make money. (Jingles money bag.)
Clerk 3: But I hear something more. Can't you hear it calling out there?
Clerk 1: (Feels forehead of other clerk) Are you well? Maybe you've got some seasonal bug.
Clerk 3: No, I think you two have a seasonal bug called "greed." I think there's more to this season than spending, spending, and spending. I just hear something more.
Clerk 2: Sure, there's more. It's getting, getting, getting!
Clerk 3: I think you're listening to the wrong Christmas spirit.
Clerk 1: So what is it you want us to hear this Christmas season?
Clerk 3: I bet we can hear a different message if we travel back in time to when it all began. Are you game?
Clerk 1: Why not?
Clerk 2: Let's go!
Clerk 3: And Church, listen to the voice of Christmas as it calls to you this night.
(Clerks and Sign Board leave.)
Traveling Music
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
(Sign -- "Nazareth." Joseph enters from side and lays down pretending to sleep.)
Narrator 1: Long ago in the city of Nazareth a miracle was about to occur.
(Angel enters from back door and approaches the sleeping Joseph. Touches him. Joseph rises.)
Narrator 2: Mary and Joseph were engaged to be married when Mary discovered she was pregnant. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph one night and told him:
Angel: Joseph, son of David, don't be afraid to take Mary as your wife because the baby in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus, because he will save his people from sin.
(Angel leaves. Mary enters from the side and Joseph goes to her.)
Joseph: Mary, come and hear what I have just heard. (Whispers in her ear)
Mary: Praise God, Joseph! You have heard what I heard. Blessed is the Lord who will bring us salvation. But listen, I hear the voices of young children coming to share our joy this night.
Traveling Music
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
(Third Graders dressed as angels enter to traveling music. They take their place to sing.)
"It Came Upon A Midnight Clear"
It came upon the midnight clear,
That glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth
To touch their harps of gold:
"Peace on the earth, good will to men,
From heaven's all-gracious King!"
The world in solemn stillness lay
To hear the angels sing.
Still through the cloven skies they come
With peaceful wings unfurled;
And still their heavenly music floats
O'er all the weary world
Above its sad and lowly plains
They bend on hovering wing,
And ever over its Babel sounds
The blessed angels sing.
Narrator 3: At this same time Caesar gave an order to all the people that they must register in their hometowns. Joseph was from Bethlehem and so he and Mary set out for the city.
(Mary and Joseph move behind or around the group and walk out in front of them pretending to be traveling, then exit.)
Traveling Music
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
(Fourth Graders dressed as angels enter to traveling music. They walk up the middle to stand in front to sing "O Come, All Ye Faithful.")
"O Come, All Ye Faithful"
O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant,
O come ye, o come ye to Bethlehem!
Come and behold him, born the King of angels!
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation!
Sing all ye citizens of heaven above!
Glory to God, all glory in the highest!
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
Narrator 2: Let us go to Bethlehem now.
(Fourth Grade and Third Grade sing verse 1 of "O Little Town of Bethlehem.")
"O Little Town of Bethlehem"
O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by;
Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light.
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.
Narrator 2: Congregation, join us in singing the rest of this carol as our youth depart.
(Congregation joins in verses 2 and 3 as Fourth and Third Grades leave.)
Congregation
For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars together, proclaim the holy birth,
And praises sing to God the king and peace to all the earth!
How silently, how silently the wondrous gift is giv'n!
So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of his heav'n.
No ear may hear his coming; but, in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him still
The dear Christ enters in.
(While the congregation is singing, Mary and Joseph enter again. Three innkeepers enter and take their places in front. Sign -- "Bethlehem.")
Narrator 1: No ear may hear his coming ...
Narrator 2: But in this world of sin ...
Narrator 3: Where meek souls will receive him still, the dear Christ enters in.
Narrator 1: Let us pray. Lord Jesus, we come to you with ears hearing the story of your birth. Help us to respond to your voice calling us to come to you. We open our hearts to receive you anew. Come into our hearts, Lord Jesus. In your precious name we pray. Amen.
Narrator 2: But back to our story. After walking for some time, Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem and began to search for a place to spend the night.
Traveling Music
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
(Joseph walks to first innkeeper. Motions to Mary, but the first innkeeper just shakes his head "no" at Joseph's request and walks off stage. Joseph and Mary move to the second who throws up hands, shakes head, and leaves. Couple hang heads, then move to the pulpit to take place for dialogue with third innkeeper who has moved to the lectern. While this is happening, Second Graders dressed as angels enter from the back of the church to traveling music. Youth enters with sign -- "Stable." Another carries a manger and puts it down. Second Graders take their place and sing "Angels We Have Heard On High.")
"Angels We Have Heard On High"
Angels we have heard on high,
Sweetly singing o'er the plains;
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous songs prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be
Which inspire your heavenly song?
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Joseph: Sir, please help us. We've traveled a long way, and we need a room.
Innkeeper: I am sorry, but I have no rooms. It's census time, and the city is bursting with all the people coming to be counted by the Roman government.
Joseph: Please sir, my wife is pregnant, and there is no place for us to stay. Hear our cries for help.
Innkeeper: (Scratches the side of his face and sighs) Well, if you would like, you could spend the night in my stable. (Points to stable)
Joseph: That will work just fine. Thank you!
(Second Grade sings final verse of "Angels We Have Heard On High.")
Come to Bethlehem, and see
Him whose birth the angels sing;
Come adore on bended knee,
Christ the Lord, our newborn King.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
(Second Graders return to seats while pianist continues to play "Angels We Have Heard On High." Mary and Joseph go to the stable and sit. Manger is brought out.)
Mary: UOOOH! (Hugs middle as in labor) Joseph, I think that it's time for the baby to be born! Let's have the congregation join us in a song of celebration, "Oh, Come, Little Children."
Congregation
"Oh, Come, Little Children"
Oh, come, little children, oh, come, one and all,
To Bethlehem haste to the manger so small.
God's Son for a gift has been sent you this night
To be your Redeemer, your Joy and Delight.
See Mary and Joseph, with love-beaming eyes,
Are gazing upon the rude bed where he lies,
The shepherds are kneeling, with hearts full of love,
While angels sing loud alleluias above.
(Mary and Joseph go off stage. Pianist changes traveling music as Preschool and Kindergarten children, dressed in lamb ears or other animal headbands, enter with First Graders with gold garland around heads. Youth gather together in front to sing.)
Narrator 2: What joy young children bring. Hear them as they sing!
(Groups sing "Joy To The World!")
"Joy To The World!"
Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive its King.
Let every heart, prepare him room.
And heav'n and nature sing,
And heav'n and nature sing,
And heav'n and nature sing.
He rules the earth with truth and love,
And makes the nations see
The glories of his righteousness,
And wonders of his love,
And wonders of his love,
And wonders of his love.
Narrator 2: What joy came into our world that night. The earth praised God as the light of the world entered our darkness.
(First Graders and Preschool and Kindergartners sing "The First Noel.")
"The First Noel"
The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter's night that was so deep.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.
And by the light of that same star,
Three wise men came from country far;
To seek for a King was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went.
(Star appears held up high or light up above youth.)
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.
Narrator 1: Church, are you hearing the message of Christmas? Let us rejoice in the youth who have shared this message with us. Join us in singing "We Three Kings."
(Youth exit. Youth with star stays. Congregation sings verses 1 and 4 of "We Three Kings." Mary and Joseph go down in front with manger. Three Wise Men enter from side with their gifts. Take place in back of Mary and Joseph.)
Congregation
"We Three Kings"
We three kings of Orient are,
Bearing gifts we traverse afar
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.
O star of wonder, star of night.
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding.
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Glorious now behold him arise,
King and God and Sacrifice;
Alleluia, alleluia!
Earth to heaven replies.
O star of wonder, star of night.
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding.
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Narrator 3: At the same time three Wise Men were traveling through the desert when they saw a star high in the eastern sky.
Wise Man 1: Look! It's the star of the King! (Points to star)
Wise Man 2: Come on; let's follow it!
Narrator 1: Mary had given birth to our Savior, Jesus Christ. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and placed him in a manger.
(Mary places baby Jesus in the manger. Joseph stands next to her.)
Wise Man 3: We have brought gifts of gold (Pauses as Wise Man 1 kneels and hands to Mary), frankincense (Pauses as Wise Man 2 kneels and hands to Mary), and myrrh for the child born a king (Kneels and gives to Mary).
Narrator 2: Yes, Jesus is the one born King of kings. Hear the Word of the Lord concerning his reign.
Narrator 3: "A child has been born to us; God has given a son to us. He will be responsible for leading the people. His name will be Wonderful Counselor, Powerful God, Father Who Lives Forever, Prince of Peace. Power and peace will be in his kingdom and will continue to grow forever. He will rule as king on David's throne and over David's kingdom. He will make it strong by ruling with justice and goodness from now on and forever. The Lord All-Powerful will do this because of his strong love for his people." A reading from the prophet Isaiah, chapter 9, verses 6-7 (New Century Version).
Sunday School Superintendent: I wish to thank all our youth who made this a night filled with hearing God's story of his great love for all of us. So let's welcome all our youth back as they come to share in our final number. Let's sing "Away In A Manger."
(All youth enter and take their place as congregation sings "Away In A Manger." Oldest youth first, fill in as groups with youngest ones in front. Mary and Joseph and Wise Men stay in front.)
"Away In A Manger"
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus lay down his sweet head,
The stars in the sky looked down where he lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep in the hay.
The cattle are lowing, the poor baby wakes,
But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes.
I love thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky.
And stay by my cradle 'til morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care.
And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.
Sunday School Superintendent: Do you hear what our youth have told you of this Christmas? The joy that floods our hearts is not one that comes from sleigh rides, or purchasing gifts, or getting gifts. It is receiving the Lord Jesus Christ into our hearts. Do you hear what I hear, Church? Listen as our youth share their final song, "Do You Hear What I Hear?"
Youth
"Do You Hear What I Hear?" (Copyright words and music by Noel Regney and Gloria Shayne; Hal Leonard, publisher)
Sunday School Superintendent: Did you hear what we heard? We pray you did. Go in the name of the Child of Bethlehem who loves you and has come to bring you salvation. Join us for cookies and beverage. Now let's all sing "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing."
Traveling Music (Sung by youth and congregation)
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
Hark! the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled."
Joyful all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th' angelic host proclaim,
"Christ is born in Bethlehem."
Hark, the herald angels sing,
"Glory to the newborn King."
Traveling Music
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
Leader's Helps
Fifth Grade
• Song: "Jingle Bells"
• Dressed in hats with scarves
• Carry sleigh bells to ring
Third Grade
• Song: "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear"
• Song: "O Little Town of Bethlehem," verse 1
• Dressed as angels or in nice outfits with gold garland around heads
Fourth Grade
• Song: "O, Come All Ye Faithful"
• Song: "O Little Town of Bethlehem," verse 1
• Dressed as angels or in nice outfits with gold garland around heads
Second Grade
• Song: "Angels We Have Heard On High"
• Dressed as angels or in nice outfits with gold garland around heads
Preschool and Kindergarten
• Song: "Joy To The World"
• Song: Refrain of "The First Noel"
• Dressed as animals (headbands with ears such as sheep; may blacken noses)
First Grade
• Song: "Joy To The World"
• Song: "The First Noel," verses 1 and 2
• Dressed as shepherds
All groups
• "Do You Hear What I Hear?"
Participants
• Use youth musicians and teachers or other special music in prelude
• Pianist
• Sunday School Superintendent
• Youth 1, 2, and 3
• Clerks 1, 2, and 3
• Can be teachers
• Wear green, red, or Christmas aprons
• One carries money and money bag
• Money bag
• Narrators 1, 2, and 3
• Angel
• Joseph
• Mary
• 3 Innkeepers (two don't speak)
• 3 Wise Men (carry three gifts)
Other Props
Signs
• Mr. Greedy's Department Store
• Nazareth
• Bethlehem
• Stable
Manger
Bench for Mary and Joseph
Star
May use a star and a stable backdrop
Congregational Songs:
• "O Little Town Of Bethlehem," verses 2 and 3
• "Oh, Come, Little Children," verses 1 and 3
• "We Three Kings Of Orient Are," verses 1 and 5
• "Away In A Manger"
• "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," verse 1
"Do You Hear What I Hear?"
Secure sheet music for tune and permission to copy from copyright holder. Copyright words and music by Noel Regney and Gloria Shayne (Hal Leonard, publisher). Obtain music for your use.
