See a preview of 'A Bethlehem Experience' Sunday
Bethlehem Lutheran Church's mission - to share the living water of Jesus Christ with all who thirst - is integral to its 2016 plans for "A Bethlehem Experience," to be presented continuously at no charge from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 9-10, in West Dundee.
"A Bethlehem Experience" will include guided 30-minute walking tours of live acting scenes with a spiritual and social message: Christ lived and died for our sins. Watching the portrayal of events before, during and after the birth of Christ will give viewers of all ages a positive spirit through the holiday season.
The outdoor playlets in the churchyard will feature members of the congregation in costume on sets with sound effects and lighting. The presentation will include:
• "An Angel Appears to Mary": The moments during which Mary learns from Gabriel that she will be the mother of Jesus;
• "No Room at the Inn": Joseph's and Mary's arrival in Bethlehem and hearing that they will have no place to stay for Jesus' birth;
• "Shepherds Hear the Good News": An evening surprise for frightened, excited shepherds who journey to find the newborn Jesus;
• "Behold Your Savior (The Shepherds' Visit)": the incredible opportunity of the shepherds to be the Holy Family's first visitors;
• "Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh (The Three Kings Visit)": The humbling experience of distant leaders as they visit the young Jesus;
• "Jesus is Grace, Forgiveness and Love (Today's Savior)": A sobering, shocking look into modern life's challenges and how faith helps to address them.
Assisted parking is available. Check in at the east entrance to the red brick church, 401 W. Main St. in West Dundee. It is free, though donations of canned goods for the FISH Food Pantry are welcome. Refreshments, entertainment, optional building tours and surprises for the youngest visitors will be offered. Guides will assemble groups prior to beginning the outdoor experience. Dress for winter weather.
Scenes from "A Bethlehem Experience" will be previewed at the 8 a.m. worship on Sunday, Nov. 13, in the red brick church at 401 W. Main St., and the 10:30 a.m. service Sunday, Nov. 20, at the yellow brick church, 417 W. Main St., West Dundee.
For information, visit bethlehemdundee.org or call (847) 426-7311.