In a church-theater, safe haven from

     Christmas Eve snow,

Attentive congregation is fixed upon

     the seasonal re-creation;

Before the footlights of candles

A tradition solemn, from Biblical script,

Proclaiming, "peace, goodwill among men..."

 

And the annual drama is complete.

 

Behind and beneath stagecraft

     the child asks:

"Can the Nativity be performed

     without the players

Who are the living abodes of love?

Does darkness fall with the curtain?"

 

Only actors and audience can say

     if this spirit is temporal

Or harbored year 'round...