No one at the Mattapoisett Congregational Church is positive exactly how long the White Gifts Pageant has been going on for, but one thing is for sure – it’s been happening for as long as anyone can remember.

Pageant director Holly Gordon said this year’s pageant is the 80th consecutive one, but that the tradition is likely about 100 years old.

“It’s the biggest way the church gives back,” she said. “It’s a fun way for the kids to get together and put on a wholesome show.”

The pageant tells the story of Jesus’ birth, and in this version, it’s the keepers of the Mattapoisett Inn who let Mary and Joseph stay in their stable.

Traditionally, the pageant had been for the church’s children, but the last couple years have seen more adults get involved.

“Last year we had adult readers and this year we have adult actors,” Gordon said. “It’s truly intergenerational.”

About 30 people participate in the pageant, which Christian Education Director Patricia Berry said is more of a worship service than a traditional pageant.

“That’s what makes it really unique, it’s not a performance, it’s a service,” she said. “It’s telling the story in a simplistic way and engaging everyone.”

Audience members also become part of the show when they’re invited up to present their gifts to baby Jesus. The gifts are all wrapped in white, hence White Gifts Pageant, and are items that are bought for families in need.

“The gifts represent the Christian mission,” Berry said. “It’s not the value of the gift, it’s the meaning.”

The church has tags available with specific items listed to purchase for families in need, or residents can bring new children’s socks and underwear wrapped in white tissue paper.

This year, the pageant is on Sunday, Dec. 17 at 3 p.m. in Reynard Hall, located at 27 Church St.