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A Walk Through Pageant of a Living Christmas Story The Experience
Visitors view the pageant as they walk along a route through the church's lawn area. Traditional scenes depict highlights from the Biblical account of the Christmas story including Gabriel's announcement to Mary, the Shepherds, and the Nativity. A searchlight visible from miles represents the star of Bethlehem. The journey, consisting of all live scenes, will begin with Gabriel's annunciation to Mary followed by Joseph's encounter with the angel, and then to Mary sharing her news with Elizabeth. Visitors will happen upon the weary couple as they make their way toward Bethlehem to register for the census. A heavenly host of angels will also be seen proclaiming Christ's birth to shepherds in the field. The journey becomes interactive as visitors pass through the city gates to experiences all its sights, sounds, and aromas of the time. They will mingle with the town's people, talk to travelers, and visit the many shops in the marketplace. Inside the gates of Bethlehem, inhabitants and travelers engage in activities typical of over 2000 years ago at the village market, the smith shop, the Inn, and other village locales. Roman soldiers on horseback move through the crowds and animals join in the celebration. One can experience what Mary and Joseph might have encountered as they made their way through the city looking for lodging. The journey will also include women at the well, the inn, beggars, prophets, and more. Wise men will be seen following a star in search of the Christ child. And then finally the stable where Mary and Joseph found shelter, and a manger where they laid the baby Jesus. When and Where?Journey to Bethlehem is held every two years. The next event is December 3-5, 2010.
Click here for directions to St. John's UMC Admission to the event is free. Visitors may enter St. John's from Oakland Avenue or park at the city municipal lot. There will be special access for those who are handicapped or unable to walk. ContactFor more information, contact us at 803-327-3113
St. John's United Methodist Church Pictures |
Experience the town of Bethlehem on the night Jesus was born and see the Christmas story come alive with a cast and crew of over 500 at "Journey to Bethlehem".
