A tree sings in Maryland

By Hamil R. Harris

People expect angels, shepherds and actors playing Mary and Joseph during the annual church play about the birth of Christ. But last weekend at Riverdale Baptist Church, the nativity scene was eclipsed during a lively two-hour production that was almost more Broadway than Bible.
It was the 23rd annual presentation of "The Living Christmas Tree," and in addition to having a live orchestra and 70 voices singing from a 30-foot tree filled with dancing lights, members of the Upper Marlboro church told the story of "Rufus Murray," an old grump who wanted to know the significance of his birthday that just happened to be on Dec. 25.

During the drama there were women singing from beds in the delivery room, dancers twirling in poodle skirts and a battle scene from Vietnam to help Murray understand that his life did have meaning. Pastor Brian Mentzer said the script was all about making the story of Jesus relevant at a time when many are hurting. "We are a nation that has been at war for eight years..experiencing an uncertain economy for the past two, we have had friends and neighbors who have lost jobs and lost homes, "Mentzer said. "The message of Christmas and the message of hope, forgiveness and redemption, those are powerful messages for the human soul."

Riverdale, one of several large congregations in Prince Georges County with a holiday production, has changed over the years from being majority white to multi-ethnic.Tony DiCanio, the church's Mnister of Music, offered a special prayer of thanksgiving just before people took their places for the performance began. "We are just so thankful God that we can put on a production here at Riverdale that tells your story," prayed DiCanio. "Lord we pray that lives will be changed and we thank your for allowing us to do what we enjoy."

With the help of full orchestra, DiCanio directed the church's choir in a range of holiday and religious music that came to a stirring crescendo when soloist Nichole Cerulla reminded those gathered that people don't have to wait to love just one day out of the year with a song entitled, "Dont Save It All For Christmas Day."

Sitting in the audience with her daughter Ryan and friends, Army Sgt. Alexis Nunley said being at the event was special. "This time last year I was in Iraq. You always miss the ones that you love so this year these times are a lot more cherished."

By

David Waters

 |  December 14, 2009; 4:34 PM ET  |  Category:  Today in the Post Save & Share:                 
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