The cast of "The Third Sunday of Advent" is pictured during a recent rehearsal for the original comedy-drama to be performed at St. Anthony Parish in Hoopeston on Dec. 10. It was written by parishioner Tom Sweeney (upper right). )Provided photo/Jordan Crook, Hoopeston Chronicle)

HOOPESTON — St. Anthony Parish here will present an original play, “The Third Sunday of Advent,” at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10, in the church hall, 423 S. 3rd St.

The comedy-drama was written by parishioner Tom Sweeney, who taught dramatic writing at Homewood-Flossmoor High School for 34 years and now lives in rural Hoopeston. Among his other original works was “Chalk,” a dramatic interpretation of the life and teachings of Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen that was produced at the parish in 2014.

Admission is free for “The Third Sunday of Advent,” which is about an hour in length and includes the serving of a free dessert.

Noting that in the liturgical year the third Sunday of Advent is known as “Gaudete (Rejoice) Sunday,” Sweeney said the production includes much merriment as well as suspense and lessons of faith. Central to the parable is a donkey that is reluctant to journey to Bethlehem as Joseph seeks shelter for Mary.

Among the performing parishioners are Mike and Yolanda Pemberton as Joseph and Mary. Music director is Sarah Kasallis, and the play ends with the singing of “O Holy Night.”