Many Churches at Christmas time put on a pageant with the children dressed as angels, shepherds, Mary, Joseph, the magi and the little drummer boy. (Everybody needs a part!) If there is a newborn in the parish to add to the mix all the better. The cuteness of the scene should not distract us from the fact that the true meaning of the birth of Jesus would only be discovered at his death. The story of the slaughter of the Holy Innocents as recorded in St. Matthew’s gospel serves as a cautionary tale not to sentimentalize the Christmas story. The Son of God entered into a world which was hostile to his message of love and mercy and peace. The old ways die hard
