The little-known history of the Nativity play
In the run-up to Christmas, primary schools and Sunday schools often put on Nativity plays. This custom, however, is a surprisingly modern tradition. Here is its story.
Current page: life
More stories in life
-
God's peace and the world's peace are not the same thing
The peace of God is the opposite of all that the world has to offer.
-
Gifts that aren't things: presents for your loved ones that won't end up at the back of a cupboard
It might be a heartwarming sight to see a pile of colourfully wrapped presents sitting snug under a twinkling Christmas tree. But post-celebrations, the resulting pile of goods can also sometimes leave us a little bit guilty.
-
Reflections on faith and family from the Old Testament and New Covenant
The Book of Genesis provides a foundational narrative not just for Christianity, but for humanity itself.
-
Will the real Church of England please stand up?
Against the gloomy background of failures, scandals and resignations, thousands of Church of England churches, and many thousands more of other denominations, are working hard at the grassroots.
-
Who was Good King Wenceslas?
Every Christmas, carol singers sing the song of Good King Wenceslas. But who was he? This is the story ...
-
Popular culture is pointing to Jesus, and it's time to talk about it
Although not all cultural references to Christianity are positive – and many are negative in the extreme – all are invitations to talk.
-
Philippians 4:6 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year
The popular Bible app said the verse reflects a trend seen throughout the year of increasing numbers of people seeking God through His Word and in prayer.
-
What do Christians have to say about death?
Many people, including many Christians, find the idea of eternal damnation difficult to accept.
-
Who was St Andrew and why is he patron saint of Scotland?
The 30th November is St Andrew's day. Who was St Andrew and why is he patron saint of Scotland? This is the story ...
-
Be thankful even in the drought of your life
Thanksgiving Day is a time to take inventory of what we are thankful to God for.
-
Called beyond qualification: how God's strength shines through human weakness
The question is not whether we are strong enough, skilled enough, or good enough, but whether we are willing to let Him shape us for His purposes.
-
In these dire times for the Church, Paul's attitude and example in 2 Timothy are inspirational
Paul's exhortation to Timothy is surely pressingly relevant to those called to proclaim the Christian message in every age and generation.
Most Read
-
Oldest Christian artefact north of the Alps unearthed in Germany
-
Picturing Christ: how has Jesus been depicted over the last 2,000 years?
-
Why is there hope for all who believe in Jesus?
-
The little-known history of the Nativity play
-
Appointment of new Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief welcomed
-
Archbishop of York resists calls to resign over handling of abusive priest case
More News
-
Oldest Christian artefact north of the Alps unearthed in Germany
-
Gifts that aren't things: presents for your loved ones that won't end up at the back of a cupboard
-
The Christian response to genocide
-
Christian school counsellor sues over sacking
-
Will the real Church of England please stand up?
-
Parishes need to be liberated from the bureaucratic burden
