The Shepherds
Children's Drama For Christmas Eve
Linda M. Goens

The Shepherds is a brief sketch that brings audiences a conversation among three of the shepherds outside Bethlehem following the visit from the angel. The shepherds are overwhelmed by their experience and decide to share with everyone the good news of the Savior's birth. This charming piece can be presented with a minimum of rehearsal, and it's flexible enough to be easily worked into any worship service. Dramatization notes are included, so even novice directors and small congregations can stage this simple but moving work. There are three speaking roles, plus an optional silent manger tableau with the Holy Family. It's a great way to involve some of your congregation's young people in Christmas Eve worship!

Linda M. Goens is the Director of Creative Worship Arts at the United Methodist Church of the Saviour in Indianapolis, where she writes and directs drama and clown sketches for worship in addition to choreographing and performing liturgical movement. A graduate of the University of California at Sacramento (B.A.) and Indiana University (M.Ed.), Goens facilitates workshops in spiritual journaling and creative worship. She is the author of Angel At McDonald's (CSS) and Praising God Through the Lively Arts (Abingdon Press).