East Meadow Church School Brings Nativity Icon to Life
Parish’s 53rd Annual Christmas Program entitled “A Living Icon of the Nativity”

East Meadow, NY – Nearly 40 youth and teens of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church here participated in the parish’s 53rd annual Christmas program on Sunday, December 12. The program, entitled “A Living Icon of the Lord’s Nativity,” included scripture readings, hymns, a large format “puzzle” icon, and kids acting out the Nativity story.

“Today’s program will be one of those moments at Holy Trinity which I will remember for a long time,” said Father Martin Kraus, rector, “the atmosphere of genuine Christian love and dedication to Jesus Christ through our Orthodox Faith was very apparent.”

Holy Trinity has a long-standing tradition of presenting Christmas programs and pageants and many of the children in today’s program are sons and daughters of previous pageant participants. The program incorporated a number of new elements in contrast to previous years courtesy a new script based The Biggest Birthday Party: An Advent Calendar for the Orthodox Family, written by John Boojamra.

The program featured the children presenting the Nativity account in 12 scenes using scripture quotes and narratives, while others placed ‘pieces’ of the Nativity icon into a poster-sized version. Other children in costumes then assembled to create a ‘living Nativity icon’ on stage. Liturgical hymns and traditional carols were interspersed with the texts, which were sung by everyone gathered.

“It was really great to hear so many of those in attendance joining in to sing not only Joy to the World, but also during the Nativity troparion,” said Micki Leccese, Church School Association president.

The day’s activities began with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy by Father Martin, followed by a festive Lenten meal prepared by the parish’s sisterhood. Then the lights were dimmed and the program began. At the conclusion of the program, Santa Claus arrived for another popular Holy Trinity tradition – Santa received gifts from the children.

“It’s an annual tradition at Holy Trinity for each family to bring a gift for presentation to Santa,” said Micki Leccese, Church School Association president, adding, “He then brings the gifts, accompanied by some of our children, to the Nassau University Medical Center for distribution to children who are currently hospitalized.” This year, over 120 gifts were delivered.

On Sunday, January 2 the Church School Association will host a ‘cast party’ for the kids and parents to relive the excitement of today’s program, when they’ll watch a recording of the program.

The program was broadcast live on the parish’s website and a recording is available for viewing here:
Christmas Program

Photos from the Christmas program
and hospital visit

Complete schedule of events