Heaven on Earth
Austria
Meusburge Family
Setting – J. G. Roten

Is it true that on Christmas the stars fell from heaven? Is it true that the Christ child fell from heaven with the stars, and found himself on a bed of moss in the deep, deep forest? Christmas lore is inexhaustible. How could it be otherwise. As it was told and retold the centuries over, the miracle of miracles gave rise to many fairytales. But it is a children's privilege to keep the miracle alive. This is what this set attempts to suggest. That, yes, the stars fell from heaven, and yes, you can find the Child in the midst of a dense forest, provided you are courageous enough to brave darkness, tangled roots and loneliness. You will find him on a bed of moss and roses in the company of Joseph and Mary, and surrounded by three boy-kings singing the Christ child to sleep. The boy-kings is a Germanic custom. On January 6, boys dressed up as the three kings walk the village streets, knock on house doors and sing Christmas carols for those who are generous and hospitable.