MACHIAS, Maine — At 3:45 p.m. Friday, Serena Brooks wasn’t sure how many people she would have for the Centre Street Congregational Church’s live nativity show that would start in 15 minutes. But she wasn’t concerned.
The roles would be doled out according to who showed up.
“That’s kind of how we do it around here,” Brooks quipped.
Elaine Cale had already appeared and accepted the role of Mary.
“The good thing about the coveted Mary role is you get to sit down,” Brooks told Cale, who worried she wasn’t the right age for the part.
Chris Guy also showed up early and suited up as a shepherd.
“I’ve decided [the shepherd costume] fits, and it’s warm, so here I am,” she said.
When Greg Maxwell walked in, someone shouted, “Joseph is here!”
Soon a parade of people entered the church where Brooks was handing out costumes, designed to fit over winter clothing.
“We tell everyone to wear layers and your jackets,” said Brooks.
Sharon Dean, who played a wise person, pointed out she was 68 years old and still participating in the annual event.
“Sitting out in the cold for an hour, it’s not easy,” she said.
This is the third year for the church’s live nativity, Brooks said. This year, however, is the first year the group added narration and music. Another performance is set for 4-6 p.m. Dec. 18.
Those playing various roles in the nativity show entered the stage — set up on the steps of the church — as Doug Guy narrated and played music.
Brooks said church member Bob Fields custom designed and built the set so it would fit on the church steps.
The nativity show lasted two hours with many of those playing roles being relieved by others stepping into character throughout the evening.
Despite the cold and the fact that most performers had to stand, the volunteers said they found it satisfying.
“I get so much out of standing there in a quiet motionless environment, just thinking, and the time goes by so fast,” said Chris Guy.
Cale said she liked to see the young children watching in awe.
The live nativity show was part of several events scheduled Friday for the Down East Christmas Festival, which included a variety of activities for children, visits with Santa, a craft fair Christmas cookie decorating and a parade followed by a tree lighting ceremony.
Events were sponsored by various groups and businesses from the area and were free to the public.
“We’re not looking to get our name out. We’re just doing a good thing,” said Bobbi Ashley, an event coordinator and employee of Machias Savings Bank.