Hey GIGI kids,

Today we have a great story for you called "The Case of the Missing Manger." A story reminding us that Christmas is about Jesus and not the material things. Here's a sneak peek....

Sunnyhill Primary was buzzing with excitement. The scent of crayons, pine decorations, and fresh photocopy paper filled the Year 2 classroom. It was one week before Christmas, and that meant only one thing: The Christmas Assembly was nearly here!

"Alright, everyone," said Mrs Lane, clapping her hands. "Time to unpack the nativity props!"

Cheers filled the air.

Rosie bounced on her toes. "I hope the angel wings are back!" Elijah grinned. "I just hope the shepherd costumes don't itch this year." Hannah, holding her script, smiled proudly. "Well, I'm Mary. So I get to rock the baby Jesus!"

Mrs Lane gently opened a large storage box and carefully unwrapped a small, hand-carved wooden manger. Nestled inside was a cloth-wrapped baby Jesus figure with painted eyes and a peaceful smile.

"This," she said, holding it up, "is the most important part of our nativity."

The class grew quiet. Even Luca stopped fidgeting.

Mrs Lane placed the manger gently on a small table at the front of the classroom. Around it, they arranged tiny cardboard animals, some straw, and wooden figures of Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds.

"We decorate, we sing, we wear costumes," said Mrs Lane, "but remember—Jesus is the reason for Christmas. Not lights or lollies or tinsel—Jesus."

Rosie felt a warm, special feeling in her chest. She looked at the tiny baby and whispered, "You're the whole reason we're doing this."

The children spent the rest of the afternoon rehearsing. Hannah practiced rocking a pretend baby, Elijah worked on his shepherd lines, and Rosie read her narration into the microphone.

But as the sun dipped behind the schoolyard trees and the last bell rang, none of them knew what was coming.

The manger would be gone by morning.

And the Christmas mystery… would begin.

What happened next? To find out, find a comfortable spot and listen to the episode.

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Story by: Esther & Steph

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Special effect editing: James Wagner

Music credit: http://www.purple-planet.com/

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Queensland Australia 4122