Christmas tradition Village of the Nativity returns

Published 12:00 pm Monday, November 30, 2015

Special to The Leader

This December come experience the Christmas story up close and personal as the church family at North Orange Baptist Church recreates the birth of Christ in first century Palestine.

Over 100 church members are joining together again to bring “Village of the Nativity” to the Golden Triangle area.  We are excited to offer to our community this annual event that began in 2011. Since that time, we have seen over 6,000 guests walk through this outdoor encounter with history.

Hear first hand from the townspeople about the newborn King as you walk through the town that ends at a manger scene. The reenactment is complete with animals, music, and structured facades. Many volunteers from the church are dressed in costume to resemble biblical characters.

Upon arriving in Bethlehem, guests will enter through the city gates protected by Roman guards because a census has been ordered to be taken in the area.

Guests will follow various individuals from the village along a lighted path through this first century recreation and come in contact with numerous sights, sounds, and smells that would have been experienced some two-thousand years ago.  While walking along the path, you will see live animals, Bakers, Potters, Basket Weavers, Inn-Keepers, and other various village folk who will invite you to take part in their special trade. In addition, children of all ages will be able to play and encounter first century children’s games. The journey culminates where visitors see baby Jesus lying in a manager, surrounded by his parents, shepherds, and the wise men.

The entire family is invited to come out 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. on Friday, December 11 and Saturday, December 12 to walk through this live nativity experience.  Finish up the evening with a cup of hot cocoa, cookies, and some Christmas carols. North Orange Baptist Church is located just one mile north of I-10 on 16th Street (Highway 87) and is free to the community. Make “Village of the Nativity” a meaningful part of your Christmas experience with your family this year.  More information is available at www.nobcfamily.com or 409.883.5678.