THE MANGER SCENE depicts the birth of Christ in the “Journey to Bethlehem,” being presented 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at First United Methodist Church in Owosso. (Courtesy Photo)
First United Methodist Church members and friends will again present “Journey to Bethlehem” at the church’s 1500 N. Water Street location in Owosso.
After a hiatus of several years, the nine-scene, drive-through Living Nativity will be presented 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. The rain date is Sunday, Dec. 13.
“The Journey,” illuminated along a candle-lit path which winds around the church, features unique settings, lighting and music, live animals and costumed actors in a dramatic re-enactment of the event that forever changed the world – The birth of Christ.
The nine separate scenes depict events leading to the birth of Christ in Bethlehem, solemnly shown in the manger scene with the Nativity star shining brightly above the stable at the end of the Journey.
The magnificent scenes include Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem; the angel Gabriel proclaiming the Good News to shepherds huddled with their sheep; the inn where Mary and Joseph are turned away; a choir of dazzling, angelic “Heavenly Host”; and three curious kings.
The entry point for the Journey will be from northbound Washington Street (at North Street), with traffic routes and the entry point marked from M-52 and M-21. The narrow pathway of the Journey will accommodate only cars, personal-size vans and trucks, 15-passenger or non-commercial vans. Community Radio Watch volunteers will assist with monitoring and directing traffic to keep vehicles moving at a reasonable pace.
It takes approximately seven minutes to travel the “Journey” by car, and wait times are expected to be less than 15 minutes. Safety concerns prohibit pedestrians from walking the “Journey” route.
There is no admission charge for the “Journey to Bethlehem,” a Christmas gift from the congregation of the First United Methodist Church. However, donations will be gratefully accepted in Christ’s love and will be shared with those in the community who are less fortunate. For more information, persons may call the church office, (989) 725-2201.
