By Pastor Marilyn Moeller

Over 400 people strolled through Bethlehem City set up at Webster United Methodist Church on Sunday, December 8. Tourists to the city were issued coins upon entry and were encouraged to “spend” their coins at any of the Bethlehem vendors, including the carpenter shop, candle-maker, bread store, fish shop, tent-maker, etc., or they could drop some off at the synagogue or make a donation to local beggar children.  Although occasionally harassed by Roman soldiers, they were invited to meander through the town, eventually exiting via a stable on the edge of the city, where baby Jesus rested – complete with mom and dad, their trusted donkey and an angel of good tidings!

Webster UMC along with members of Bristol UMC and several folks from other area churches participated in the afternoon event. Folks toured past llamas, camels and sheep on the way into town and enjoyed various animals within the city walls including geese, chickens, goats, a cat and a dog. Following the Bethlehem City visit, they shared in Christmas treats and a time of fellowship before venturing back to their real-time chilly December day.