Church goes 'Back to Bethlehem'

Saturday, December 10, 2011
Volunteers, from left, David Lovejoy, Kendra Fishel, Matthew Watson, and Debbie Sutherlin, event chairperson, finish the sign inviting the community to "Back to Bethlehem," the 10th annual live, outdoor nativity, presented free on Dec. 16 and 17, 6:30-9 p.m., at Putnamville Baptist Church.

With all the street and highway construction projects under way around town, it's not surprising to see volunteers from Putnamville Baptist Church at work on the road that goes "Back to Bethlehem," the church's annual live, outdoor Christmas nativity.

The event is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 16 and Saturday, Dec. 17, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. both nights, rain, snow or shine. There is no charge for the event, and the public is invited to again share in this community Christmas tradition.

"Back to Bethlehem" is 10 years old this year, and it is estimated that more than 2,500 visitors have gone back to Bethlehem during those years to view scenes depicting major occurrences in the life of Jesus Christ.

Each narrated scene is portrayed by costumed adults and children of Putnamville Baptist Church. The event includes live singing, live animals and cookies and hot chocolate for all.

Church volunteers have been working on the project nights and weekends since late August.

Walking the road Back to Bethlehem, visitors will discover displays including the manger scene with Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus, and field settings that remind us that here the shepherds were told by "a multitude of angels" that a Savior had been born unto them. Each scene is a reminder of God's gifts of love and hope to all.

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