Saint Mark’s Pageant of the Nativity is not a re-enactment of a single event in history, rather a reflection and meditation on a sacred story that has spoken to people around the world and across the ages. The hymns and carols sung by the assembly and the anthems offered by the choirs have ranged from medieval chant to 21st-century world premieres. The visual images of the pageant reference art spanning the centuries, from Byzantine icons through Renaissance masters to the Victorian age and beyond. So, while the stable in Bethlehem certainly did not contain fine velvet and brocade, the pageant is clothes in the most beautiful finery the cathedral has to offer, in order to offer the best to the Christ Child today. It is the hope that the readings from Holy Scripture, the imagery, and the music bring new insight into the coming of the Prince of Peace, the incarnation of God among us. Join in this annual ritual, in-person in the cathedral nave or livestreamed. Open to all without pre-registration. More info: Pageant of the Nativity • Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral (saintmarks.org) and Advent and Christmas at Saint Mark’s 2022 • Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral (saintmarks.org)
