By Caroline Palermo

Jan. 12, 2022: The Bronxville Village Christmas Pageant began in 1914 when Arthur Lawrence, a prominent local resident, saw the need to build community solidarity at the onset of World War I. This cherished tradition continues to this day, as community members and religious leaders gather on Christmas Eve at The Reformed Church of Bronxville to recreate the Christmas story.

In a time of great uncertainty, Mr. Lawrence believed the Pageant would build solidarity in the community. As many witnessed this past Christmas Eve, the Pageant continues to create unity as it drew community members of all ages to commemorate the Christmas story on the hillside of The Reformed Church.

The Pageant began as Mary, portrayed by Cate Spitz, accompanied by Joseph, portrayed by Daniel Reilly, recreated the trek to Bethlehem with their donkey and were greeted by the manger angel, portrayed by Emma Boyce. The shepherds tending their sheep arrived soon after, together with the Wise Men, portrayed by Tim McGrath, Kevin McNeil, and Dr. Thomas Romo. Several Bronxville High School students portraying angels kept watch over the manger.

A tradition of the Pageant, the clergy from seven Bronxville Churches read the biblical stories of Christmas to the assembled crowd. In addition, Sarah and Grace Winant, both Bronxville High School alumnae, sang the traditional carols, accompanied by the Brass of Bronxville Pops concert band.

The Pageant also marked David Oelerking’s 60th year of singing with the Invisible Choir. He is already looking forward to Christmas of 2022, saying, “God willing, I will be there!”

To many, the Pageant represents a community tradition that was sorely missed when the 2020 Pageant was canceled due to the Covid pandemic. Many participants view the return of the Pageant as a testament to the spirit of Bronxville Village and the efforts of all those who work to bring the Pageant to us annually. Co-Chair of the 2021 Pageant Committee, Jennifer McGrath found this year’s event to be somewhat nostalgic, noting “The pageant has been a way to unite the community since it first began and it was wonderful to be able to bring our Village back together this year. After all of the Covid disruptions, witnessing the spirit of Christmas once again on The Reformed Church hillside was indeed magical.”

The Pageant relies on the generosity of the community to fulfill its commitments and is funded entirely by donations. To contribute, you may send your donation to the Bronxville Christmas Pageant, P.O. Box 397, Bronxville, NY or you may click here to be taken to the Pageant’s GoFundMe link to make a donation.