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By Gerry Alberts
Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and Walk thru Bethlehem at Vista United Methodist Church. This interactive, family-friendly journey through ancient Bethlehem reenacts the night Christ was born.
Take a guided tour as we walk among village shops, meet and mingle with town residents, and encounter Roman soldiers. Guided tours begin every 15 minutes from 6 p.m. through 8 p.m. (Each tour lasts approximately 40 minutes).
Your journey will begin with hot cider and Christmas carols and optional free family photographs that will be emailed to you. As you travel back in time, imagine the small town of Bethlehem 2,000 years ago.
Register your family with the census taker at the gate. As your guide explains the events of the day, observe the shepherds watching their flocks under the winter sky. Walk the crowded, narrow streets of the bustling marketplace.
Beware of the Roman soldiers, pickpockets and beggars. Talk with the vendors busy in their shops. Listen carefully and you can hear the villagers talk in excited yet hushed voices about a very special baby who’s just been born.
As you and your guide follow the star you, too, will find baby Jesus. (Don’t plan to stay overnight. The inn is full!) Enjoy snacks in the hospitality inn after your Walk through Bethlehem.
Tours are Wednesday through Friday, December 5-7 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission and parking are free. Canned goods will be appreciated. The church is located at 3001 Miravista Lane in Catalina (on the west side of Oracle Road, 3.7 miles north of Tangerine). The site is handicapped accessible and bus parking is available. No reservations are required.
For more information call 520-825-1985, or visit our website at VistaUMC.org.
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