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Rating:  4 out of Fordyce

The Lutherans guffawed; the Baptists did too; the Jews chuckled; and the Methodists giggled. But the Catholics in the audience laughed the loudest as we all sat in class for Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold.

Mary Zentmyer stars in “Sister’s Christmas Catechism”This is another in the wonderfully funny “Sister” plays. I have been a fan of this nostalgic series that reminds us that even though being Catholic is not always easy, there was a great balance of discipline and love as we were being taught by a group of dedicated women who had faith and knowledge to share.

In this case, “class” is at the Century Theatre in the historic Gem Theatre complex in Detroit. Sister is portrayed by Mary Zentmyer. She told me during an interview on my radio show that she grew up Catholic and had no trouble learning her part. This was evident from the moment she quiets us down with her clicker and starts our lessons. She is amazing to watch. There is indeed a script to the show, but what is even more fun are her ad libs with the audience. Sister warned us all not to be tardy, but some arrived late and they were appropriately disciplined. One of the boys was caught chewing gum and we all know where that gum was placed for the rest of the show!

Sister is full of knowledge and tests the class frequently. Students who got the answers correct got little gifts, such as a baby Jesus temporary birthday tattoo, a laminated card of the Pope, and candy canes, which, as we are reminded by Sister, look like the letter “J” for Jesus when turned upside down.

After our lessons and recess, it was time to act out the Christmas Story. Several class members were chosen for this task and put into costumes and made to follow Sister’s directions. As you will recall, “the Ox and Lamb kept time,” and since I was too big to play the lamb or the drummer boy I was selected to be the Ox.

Before you say it, I was Catholic long before I was a reporter, so I had to risk being a little biased with this review and, of course, obey Sister. (Yes there are embarrassing photos of this, so go to the photo album and giggle your head off).

The pageant was all part of the good-natured fun. There is nothing mean-spirited here, just delightful fun from a marvelous actress who takes us back to a much simpler time.

Sister and my classmates get a perfect four out of Fordyce. The show runs until the end of the year. Call the Gem for tickets.

P.S.: Yes, we do learn the mystery of the Magi’s gold. You will now have to be in attendance to find out who the guilty party was. And guys, volunteer to be the Wise Men when sister asks. Their costumes are much better than mine was.