'Live Nativity' to be presented at Pirtle Methodist

Last year, for the first time, the community of Pirtle, just south of Kilgore, attracted crowds of onlookers for a live depiction of the birth of Christ.

Every year, some people are concerned about Christmas becoming too commercialized. That's not likely to happen in the rural East Texas community of Pirtle.

Young people of Pirtle United Methodist Church and the surrounding area will celebrate the season once again through their own unique telling of the original Christmas story.

A "Live Nativity" scene will be presented on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 11 and 12. Two 30-minute presentations will take place each evening at 6:30 and 8. The young thespians will reenact the Christmas story as recorded in the New Testament Gospels of Luke and Matthew.

Dressed in colorful periodlike costumes, youth will interpret the words related through the Scriptures, along with traditional Christmas music.

"We were thrilled with the community support last year. We had no idea what to expect. But our congregation is looking forward to this year's repeat performance," said the Rev. Dudley Plaisance, Jr., pastor.

The presentation of Scripture readings from the two Gospel writers will re-tell the greatest story ever told, complimented by Christmas hymns highlighting these historic events.

"Add a cup of hot chocolate and cookies and this charming outdoor presentation will be an inspiration for all celebrating Christmas this year," the pastor said.

Pirtle United Methodist Church is located 3.5 miles south of the Kilgore bypass road on Highway 259 south. Turn left (east) on County Road 146. One-half mile the road will end at the church parking lot.