Things that have long stuck in my mind about the Christmas manger scene are the sounds and smells. Our mangers are dusted and clean when we put them out, but any place that has animals will have the sounds and, especially, the strong smells that go with God's creatures such as cows, donkeys and chickens: urine and, of course, poop patties and droppings. One chicken produces approximately 8–11 pounds of manure monthly!
An enjoyable Christmas carol that our family has enjoyed since the kids were in kindergarten was each person choosing the sound of an animal and then all of us making our animal noise at the same time. The delightful cacophony would go on for as long as everyone was smiling and laughing. In my opinion, I make a particularly good turkey gobbling sound! Yes, I believe this is a Christmas carol that gives glory to the Saviour whose birth we celebrate each Christmas.
O Radiant Dawn,
splendor of eternal light, sun of justice:
come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the
shadow of death.
O King of all nations and keystone of the Church:
come and save humanity, whom you formed from the dust!
O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law:
come to save us, Lord our God!