Old Bethlehem

The church down the street from us had a live Nativity on Sunday.  It was amazing.  They had bales of hay to sit on outside as we watched and listened to the Christmas story being reinacted, complete with a live camel, sheep and a donkey. 

Inside they had recreated Old Bethlehem, complete with 8+ craft stations including candle making, carpentry (where the kids made a wooden angel), medal work, pottery, weaving, stiching, and more where everyone was in costume.  They also had a food station with foods from the time period to sample, like grapes, warm bread, dates and more.  The kids loved it all.

The next night we went to Tracy's house for a family Christmas party.  Tracy was telling us about their recent trip to Bethelem and Jake piped up, "I was there last night!".    I guess it made an impression.  It was a great. hands-on experience to help make Bethlehem come alive.