The annual Christmas pageant at Rockmart Presbyterian Church is a memory of 2009 that can light up the new year.

This event, which has become a tradition, was begun almost 50 years ago as an annual activity.

Now, the pageant is presented once every two years. Featured are the historical events surrounding the birth of Jesus.

Work was begun several days before the performance when men came to the church to start building props despite the brisk winter weather.

They showed up prepared for cutting, sawing and placing materials that would become a shelter for the manger, which was the center of the pageant.

Among the builders were Michael Smith, Glenn Hittel, James Gordy, James Waits, Marlon Briscoe, and Gene Waits, Grisby Gordy, Jim Evans, Josh Smith and others.

While the men worked on the church grounds, a number of women prepared the costumes the characters would wear.

Andrea Turner was quick with the needle and Sylvia Pound was adept with an iron.

Pinkie Owens and Dixie Plant made sure there was plenty of food for the performers. Pinkie was also pleased to be with her grandchildren, Camille and Grant Cross.

Among those modeling the angel costumes were Emily and Emerson Forsyth, Grant Cross, Will Moody, Grisby Gordy and Wesley Worley.

Everyone came to either be in or support preparations for the final performance, which featured Keith Graham as Joseph and Julie Hittel as Mary.

Fully costumed shepherds, wise men and angels came to the manger to celebrate the occasion.

The pageant was narrated and accompanied by music that floated on the cold night air along the downtown streets of Rockmart.

Linda Waits, director, said the about 30 people took part in the presentation.

“It is a highlight of the holiday season for us and a labor of love for the community,” she said.