Our Christmas Gift to Others

We are putting on a devotional Christmas Program throughout our mission. We work with the local missionaries serving in the stake or districts. So far we've done the program in both Santiago Stakes and both Tuguegarao Stakes, also in Ilagan Stake and Burgos District. We tell the story of the signs of Christ's birth as recorded by the inhabitants in the American Continent. For years their prophets had foretold of a night without darkness as being the sign that Christ was born in Bethlehem. The unbelievers set a date wherein all believers would be killed if the signs didn't come to pass. Just prior to those mass executions an angel of the Lord appeared and said, "do not be afraid, for tonight the signs will be fulfilled."

We sing songs and have narration. It's so much fun and our gift to the local members and their friends. We love seeing the expressions on the people's faces when they hear four-part acapella for the first time or see our costumed characters stand and tell their stories. Many have never heard a violin and they get excited when Elder Shaner starts to play.

Santiago Stakes

Elder Kaloni (Nephi) and Elder Amoi (Samuel the Lamanite)

Our beautiful angel--Sister Forcadas

President surprised the missionaries with a little snack from McDonalds before the performance began.

We needed a little food in our tummies to give us the energy to do our best.

We're so glad Elder Shaner brought his violin with him. It adds so much to our programs!

Afterwards we had fun visiting with the missionaries and members who attended.

Burgos District

Our cast consisted of Elder Wooden as Nephi, Sister Joame as the angel and Elder Amoreda as Samuel the Lamanite. (A lot of people thought I type casted the angel!)

Elder Salvador, Sister Tabudlong and Elder Galang--the Burgos program was on a Sunday so no McDonalds--we had to snack on peanut butter and jelly instead!

Enjoying a quick break before the members started coming in the doors.

Elder Penaranda, Sister Janda and Elder Andaya are enjoying their little snack.

We love these Burgos members. They are so friendly.

One of them insisted I wear the Ifugao headdress for the picture!

We have enjoyed a good turnout in every one of our devotionals so far this year! We're so pleased that the members have been so supportive. They are so quick to thank us for our efforts! Watch for more pictures of other devotionals!