A nativity left right game is a pass-the-gift story that retells the Christmas story, from Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem to the shepherds and wise men. The Journey to Bethlehem, one of 5 stories in the PR Creative Digital printable pack, highlights every LEFT and RIGHT for easy reading and includes a names version for church groups and families.
Why a nativity version fits church and family gatherings
Many left right stories are all about Santa, elves and reindeer, which can feel off for a church Christmas party, a youth group night or a family that wants to keep Christ at the center of the season.
A nativity version keeps all the fun of passing gifts around the circle while telling the story the celebration is really about. Kids and adults alike end the game laughing, and with a gentle reminder of why we give gifts at Christmas.
What to look for in a faith-based left right story
- Faithful to the Christmas story. Look for the familiar moments: the journey to Bethlehem, no room at the inn, the manger, the shepherds and the wise men.
- Gentle and reverent. Playful passing is fine; jokes at the expense of the story aren’t.
- Suitable for all ages. Church parties often mix grandparents, parents and children in one circle.
- Easy for a volunteer to read. Clearly marked LEFT and RIGHT words help whoever is reading keep the game flowing.
How to play it at church, youth group or Sunday school
Ask each person to bring a small wrapped gift, or keep it simple and budget-friendly by passing candy canes or chocolates. Have everyone sit in a circle and choose a reader. For large groups, split into two or three circles with a printed copy for each reader.
End the game by pointing out the story’s closing message: just as the wise men brought gifts to Jesus, we share our gifts with one another. It’s a natural lead-in to a devotional, a carol or snack time.
A printable nativity story, ready to go
The Journey to Bethlehem follows Mary and Joseph on the road from Nazareth, past the crowded inn to the stable, then the shepherds in the fields and the wise men following the star, with every LEFT and RIGHT highlighted for easy reading. It’s illustrated with a glowing stable on soft blue hills, so the page looks lovely in a volunteer’s hands.
It’s included in the Christmas Left Right Game with Names, 5 Funny, Nativity, Kids & Adult Stories pack along with 4 other stories, including a short kids’ story that works well for Sunday school. The names version lets you cast members of your group as the shepherds and wise men. Print it in US Letter or A4, edit it in Canva, or read it from a phone.
The bottom line
For a church or Christian family Christmas party, a nativity left right game gives you the laughter of a classic gift exchange and the meaning of the season in one simple activity. Print one copy, gather your circle and start passing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the nativity story follow the Bible?
It follows the traditional Christmas story: the journey to Bethlehem, no room at the inn, the birth of Jesus, the shepherds and the wise men.
Is it suitable for children and Sunday school?
Yes. It’s gentle and easy to follow, and the pack also includes a short kids’ story with simple words.
Can I add names from my church group?
Yes. The names version lets you cast people as the shepherds and wise men, either by typing names in Canva or writing them on the printed page.
Can we play without gifts?
Yes. Many church groups pass candy canes or small treats instead of wrapped gifts.