Nativity Comes to Life on Greytown’s Main Street
St Luke's brings the Christmas story to the people with an outdoor service full of colour, carols, and community spirit.
The Main Street of Greytown was transformed into a living nativity scene as St Luke’s parish held its annual outdoor Christmas service under the summer sun. Complete with donkeys, sheep, and parishioners dressed as biblical characters, the event drew smiles from locals and visitors alike.
Costumes were handed out to those who arrived without one, ensuring everyone could take part in the retelling of the Christmas story. “It was a wonderful way to bring the story of Jesus’ birth into the heart of our community,” said Revs. Michelle and Adrian Tofts, Co-Vicars of St Luke’s.
The service unfolded like a film set, narrated and directed with humour and warmth. Actors were chosen from the congregation based on their costumes and given lines to read. Angels startled Mary and “stunt Mary” before appearing to Joseph in a dream. Donkeys, reluctant at first, eventually did a lap of the grass to the delight of children eager for a pat.
Baby Jesus arrived in a modern-day manger—a pram—greeted by sheep and worshipped by Wise Men who had first visited “nasty King Herod.” One young actor, Hannah, was bemused by the attention, not realising she was playing the role of Jesus.
The drama concluded with a reflection on the relevance of the Christmas story today, followed by communion. With temperatures soaring, ice cream proved a popular choice for morning tea after the service.
Passers-by stopped to watch, intrigued by the unusual sight on Main Street. Some stayed for the entire service, while passing cars honked in support. “It was a great opportunity to worship in God’s creation and be Christ’s presence in the community,” said Michelle.
The hustle and bustle of State Highway traffic and curious onlookers served as a reminder that Jesus came to dwell among us in everyday life. The congregation even paused to pray for passing ambulances, embodying the spirit of care and connection.
For St Luke’s, the outdoor nativity was more than a performance—it was a living witness to the joy and hope of Christmas. As Adrian reflected, “We wanted to share the story in a fun, engaging way and remind people that Christ is with us, right here in the midst of our busy lives.”
Written by Revs. Michelle and Adrian Tofts, Co-Vicars of St Luke’s, Greytown.
