The Bible is set to come alive in Newton County.
For the third year running, Jasper First Assembly of God will present its “Walk Through Bethlehem,” an immersive experience that will allow guests to walk through a recreation of the town of Bethlehem at the time of the birth of Jesus.
Guests will step through the town of Bethlehem and see all sorts of businesses like blacksmiths, bakers, carpenters, and live animals. Guests will also be given a coin to purchase items from certain shops.
But shops are not the only things to see. The Christmas story is also told, with recreations of the shepherds, the angels, and even the stable with Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus. It even includes crosses and the tomb.
Melissa Holt is the one who has brought all this together. The idea was floated to her by another lady in the church in 2021, however since it was “about two weeks before Christmas,” they were unable to pull it off then. That, however, gave them a whole year to plan the first one in 2022. It takes a lot of hard work to put this event on, as Pastor Steve Holt said, “It really does take the whole church.”
One new addition this year will be what has been described as a “tour guide,” someone who will take people through the town and tell the Christmas story.
The recreation will be at the Jasper First Assembly of God on Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, Dec. 8, from 6-7 p.m. Refreshments will follow to help people warm up and to fellowship. The event is free.
