The Nativity

In Nazareth, Mary counts her blessings when her parents arrange to marry her to a local carpenter, Joseph. She grows to love him as he struggles to build them a home under her mother's watchful eye. In Bethlehem, Thomas the shepherd struggles to pay his taxes while his wife lies ill. And out in the East, the Magi gather to discuss signs in the heavens that herald a great event.

Mary's visited by the Angel Gabriel and she learns she will bear the son of God. Deeply troubled, and unable to tell Joseph of her dream, she travels to see her cousin Elisabeth who is also mysteriously with child. Thomas the shepherd begs for more time to pay his taxes, but instead he has to watch as his animals are slaughtered in front of him.

Joseph can't accept Mary's explanation for her pregnancy. In danger of being stoned, Mary's father begs Joseph to take her to Bethlehem - since he has to travel there for the census. The arrival of the Magi on his borders makes Herod deeply suspicious. The Magi are wary of revealing the truth to the emissary of a king with Herod's reputation.

Joseph and Mary arrive in Bethlehem, but discover they're not welcome. When Mary goes into labor, Joseph has to find somewhere to give birth and he finds a stable behind an inn. Thomas the shepherd is driven to violence in his rage and frustration. As the stars align, Balthasar, Melchior and Gaspar hurry in disguise to Bethlehem, desperate to be present at the greatest moment in history.