Church Stages 'Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey'

By Brenda Cusick

All parents know how kids love to hear the same story over and over. John Colvin, a local father, read The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey to his kids each year and was so inspired by the heart-felt story that he took it to his writing partner, Steve Lady, to see if it was something that they could make into a performance piece.

They wrote the author and asked permission to create a dramatic piece with original music based on her book. Their wish was granted, so they
collaborated on writing and producing a beautiful musical for the Christmas season.

From the book’s cover: “Jonathan Toomey is the best woodcarver in the valley, but he is always alone and never smiles. No one knows about his heart ache. They just think he’s mean. But one early winter’s day, a
widow and her young son make a gentle request – they need a new baby Jesus carved for their nativity set. This brings about a Christmas miracle…"

The musical will be performed at Moorpark Presbyterian Church at 7 p.m. Saturday and 5 p.m. Sunday.

“The Christmas season is a wonderful time to make us think and reach out to others, and the core story in this musical gives us a chance to remember this in a new way,” said MPC's Pastor Dave Wilkinson, “We
have such amazing people here in Moorpark, with musicians and actors who live here and often work in Hollywood. It’s amazing what beauty and talent comes together in this drama.”

Everyone is welcome to come and hear this beautiful play – which features local actors and musicians. The event is free, but a good will offering will be collected to help our local food pantry. Additionally, local
Boy and Girl Scout troops will sell seasonal goodies at intermission. Copies of the book (with signed plates from the author) will be available for sale at the event – with proceeds going to help local charities feed the hungry.

The church is located at 13950 Peach Hill Road.