Experience Bethlehem in Coral Springs

image_PRESS“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11)

An interactive recreation of Bethlehem, the renowned city of David and the birthplace of Jesus, can once again be experienced in Coral Springs. Sponsored by First Church of Coral Springs, Bethlehem Revisited will be presented from December 11 to 15 at the church located at 8650 W Sample Road, Coral Springs. Bringing the city of our Savior to life in this intimate and interactive way has been a unique tradition of First Church of Coral Springs for 24 years.

 

Living history

This recreation of the Jesus’ birthplace attracts more than 10,000 visitors annually. Guests can experience the first Christmas in a keenly hands-on and tangible way that is appropriate for all ages.

The historic recreation includes a walled city utilizing more than 30,500 square feet of lumber and 20 gallons of paint. It takes about 1,100 man-hours to build and features an authentic marketplace where shop owners are eager to show their wares and demonstrate how they are made.

Bethlehem Revisited will leave you with a better historical knowledge of the Christmas story.

If you’ve ever wondered what it was like in the city of Bethlehem, then Bethlehem Revisited can give you that first-hand experience. Among the tented shops this year are the Bethlehem bakery, carpenters, blacksmiths, candle makers, leather tanners, perfume shops and a potter’s house. In addition, there is an herbal healing and midwifery shop to demonstrate how infants were cared for 2000 years ago. There is definitely something for everyone’s interest.

Additionally, in the fresh markets, guests can sample choice foods served more than 2,000 years ago such as fresh grapes, honey and matzo bread.

Guests can also expect to see nomads, rabbis, shepherds, Roman soldiers, the wise men, livestock, inn-keepers, angels, and of course, the Holy Family in the manger.

“We hope that everyone who leaves the city is lifted up and given a sense of peace,” said Senior Pastor, Alex Shanks.

This portrayal of the nativity in this intimate and livened scene is the culmination of the Bethlehem Revisited performance. You’ll find the infant in the manger with Mary and Joseph and the angels.

 

New additions

Among a new and diverse cast of actors, storytellers and volunteers, this year Bethlehem Revisited has a brand new and updated construction. Guests can enjoy two different and separate fresh produce markets.

And Janet Brockway, coordinator of Bethlehem Revisited, said one of the many things that stands out this year is the presentation in the sanctuary. “After people leave the nativity, they are welcome, if they wish, to step into the sanctuary for a time of prayer and reflection. During this time of reflection, we will share the good news of Jesus. Many of the Old Testament prophecies will appear on the screen along with the fulfillment found in the New Testament.”

She explained that, “We want everyone to know that Christmas is just the beginning of a plan God had in store for us —   a story that is completed, not in Bethlehem, but on the cross.”

This event, which is absolutely free, begins Friday, December 11 and will close on Tuesday, December 15. You can enter the city from 7 — 9 p.m. on Friday, 6 — 9 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and 7 — 9 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday.

Appropriate for all ages, Bethlehem Revisited is a great tradition for families to enjoy before the Christmas Holiday. Come and join the thousands of people who experience Bethlehem each year.

More details are available at www.firstchurchcoralsprings.com or www.bethlehem-revisited.com. First Church of Coral Springs is located at 8650 W Sample Road, Coral Springs (half a mile east of University Drive). Call 954-752-0333 for more information.

 

Linda Romero Nuñez is a wife, mom, step-mom, and a full-time teacher who enjoys writing recreationally. Email: [email protected]

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