Event Returns Dec. 6-7
Experience the night Jesus was born at the 3rd annual Bethlehem Walk held at Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield on Dec. 6 and 7.
The free, family-friendly, handicap-accessible event offers a walk-through experience of the sights and smells of Bethlehem with plenty of fun activities to get into the spirit of the very first Christmas. Last year, the event attracted over 400 visitors.
The experience begins at the church entrances where visitors will sign the census and make their way to the Bethlehem Visitor’s Center for a short performance by P.U.P.P.E.T.S. Tours leave every 15 minutes. P.U.P.P.E.T.S will also have painted Christmas tree for sale, proceeds from which will benefit a local family in need through Marshfield Area United Way.
Visitors will receive gold coins and bag for their souvenirs — but watch out for the Roman centurion, who will demand a tax upon arrival at Bethlehem (the church gym). However, there will be a chance to earn back the coin by helping one of the townspeople with laundry.
Take home a handmade pocket prayer shawl at the Wool Shoppe and a scroll with a handwritten Bible verse at the scribe’s tent, make a hand drum at the Toy Shoppe, decorate a wooden christmas tree ornament, and crush exotic spices at the Spice Shoppe before taking home a small packet to try at home.
There will also be a petting zoo with a live goat and sheep. A real baby will play Jesus on Saturday from 1-2:30 p.m. at the inn.
Besides crafts, visitors can make a delicious cinnamon treat at the bakery and draw a bottle of water out of the well. Commemorate the trip to Bethlehem by dressing up at the photographer’s station. Photos will be available online later.
Visitors will conclude their visit by experiencing the true meaning of Christmas, according to Tammy Schwartz, Director of Christian Education at Christ Lutheran.
“As visitors walk through the street of Bethlehem, we want to offer them this message of hope: God loves you so much. He sent His son Jesus to come to Earth to save you. Because of Jesus, you are forgiven, loved, and free to live the beautiful life God has planned for you. You are never alone. God is with you today and always.”
The Bethlehem Walk will take place 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Friday, December 6 and 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, December 7.
