St. Francis Xavier first-graders share Advent story through Nativity play

Students bring the story of Jesus’ birth to life during Dec. 17 prayer service, continuing a cherished school tradition

St. Francis Xavier School first-graders brought the Nativity to life during an Advent prayer service Dec. 17, with every student taking part in the story of Jesus’ birth.
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From left, Mary (Ella Bartle), Joseph (Grayson Mushenheim) and the Star (Elise Wagner) are portrayed by St. Francis Xavier School first-graders during the school’s Advent Nativity prayer service Dec. 17.

St. Francis Xavier School first-graders presented their Advent Nativity play on Dec. 17 as part of a prayer service. The longtime tradition gives each student a role in telling the story of Jesus’ birth.

In the presentation, Joseph and Mary arrive in Bethlehem to find no room at the inn. One innkeeper, “booked up,” allows them to rest near a manger in the back, where the animals make room for the baby. 

A bright light fills the sky as angels bring the good news to the shepherds, who, despite being overlooked by the townspeople, hurry to Bethlehem and become the first to see the newborn king. Three wise men follow a new star to the place where Jesus was born. 

The program concludes with the students singing together, sharing a message of letting their light shine so others may see God through them.

The first-grade class is led by teachers Mrs. Hayley Davis and Mrs. Pam Bugner, with Father Michael Petkosek also participating. Elise Wagner portrayed the star. Mary and Joseph were played by Ella Bartle and Grayson Mushenheim. Nativity animals included Addie Stechshulte as the cow, Gannon Riley as the donkey, and Evan Heestand as the sheep. The three kings were portrayed by William Stimpert, Arianna Holmes and Beau Ganzer.

St. Francis Xavier School first-graders William Stimpert, Arianna Holmes and Beau Ganzer portray the Three Kings during the school’s Advent Nativity prayer service.
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