The Paper Bag Pageant” is a fun, slightly chaotic, but heartfelt retelling of the nativity story. Each actor is handed a paper bag containing a random object—a rope, a flashlight, a toy crown, a small cloth, or a stick—and must use it to portray their assigned role. As the Narrator tells the Christmas story, the actors react, improvise, and adapt, turning ordinary objects into symbols of God’s extraordinary plan.

Despite the humor that unfolds, the skit leads the audience to a meaningful truth: God can use anything—and anyone—to reveal His glory. The unexpected props become reminders that Christmas is not about perfection but about God meeting us where we are. The skit ends by grounding the message in Scripture and the promise of Jesus as our Savior.

Theme

Trusting God and recognizing that He can use anything for His purposes.

Characters

(6–10 actors)

• Narrator – Tells the story; calm but amused by the chaos.

• Mary – Sweet, sincere, trying her best with an odd prop.

• Joseph – Supportive, slightly confused b,ut committed.

• Angel – Joyful and dramatic with their unusual item.

• Shepherd 1 – Easily excited.

• Shepherd 2 – Calm but funny in their reactions.

• Wise Man 1 – Serious and proud of whatever object they receive.

• Wise Man 2 – Overly dramatic.

• Wise Man 3 – Almost too calm; tries to stay dignified.
  
  

When

Modern children’s program acting out Biblical times.

Props & Costumes

• Paper bags

• Random objects (rope, flashlight, toy crown, cloth, stick, etc.)

• Simple robes or scarves

Why

Highlights 1 Corinthians 1:27, showing that God often uses simple or unexpected things to reveal His glory.

How

A simple stage with actors standing in a semicircle holding their paper bags. The Narrator stands to the side.

Time

5 minutes