Isaiah 9:6 reads, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders, and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
What was it like for Mary and Joseph to travel all the way to Bethlehem, only to find that there was no room at the inn? And for Mary to give birth to Jesus in a manger? Around Christmastime, people will often see a nativity scene consisting of art objects depicting the birth of Jesus. Because these displays are static and do not move, people don't really get a sense of the emotion surrounding Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. Diane Herr, a member of Mechanic Grove Church of the Brethren, decided to add a little bit of life into the Nativity scene.
Over the summer last year, Diane began brainstorming the idea of hosting an outdoor event for people to gather. She decided Christmas would be a good time because she assumed COVID-19 restrictions would lower by then. So, Diane sat down and wrote a script for a four-scene production of a Live Journey to the Nativity. "I'm not taking credit for this because, honestly, I feel like this was all spirit-led," Diane said. "If someone told me to sit down today and do that again, I don't think I could do it."
After getting approval from her pastor, Diane quickly gathered a crew to help with the production. About 240 people attended last year's Live Journey to the Nativity at Mechanic Grove Church of the Brethren. "Everyone seemed like they really enjoyed it," stated Diane.
This year, more than 50 church members have been working together to host the second annual Live Journey to the Nativity. Aside from Diane, the core committee group consists of Laurie O'Donnell, Amy Housekeeper, Heather Kreider, Lori Holzhauer, Melissa Houghton, and Hans Herr. "These individuals are such an asset at making this (production) happen," noted Diane.
The second annual event will take place on Saturday, Dec. 11, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The four scenes will be setup outside of the church, 1392 Robert Fulton Highway, Quarryville. A group leader will lead attendees on a lit path to the scenes, which follow the journey that took Mary and Joseph to the stable where Jesus was born. Prior to embarking on the 40-minute journey to Bethlehem, attendees will receive complimentary hot chocolate and cookies while enjoying a campfire. The scenes will feature live animals, including sheep, a miniature horse, donkeys, goats, and a calf.
"I love this time of year, but I know some people don't. Could be for a number of reasons," said Diane. "But if they come, and they walk away with maybe a better feeling ... that would be a success."
There is no cost to attend. People are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items and gift cards, which will be donated to Solanco Neighborhood Ministries. These items will be collected at the welcome area. Golf carts will be available for those unable to walk. In the case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled for Sunday, Dec. 12, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the church.
"It's an experience," said Diane. "It almost feels like you might be there. You'll be able to feel how possibly it might have been back then."
For more information, contact the church at 717-786-2723 or church@mgcb.org.
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