Follow the star to Bethlehem at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains ... 2010

Follow the star to Bethlehem ... find the peace of the season.
It's closer than you think.

Bethlehem Village, where the Christmas story comes to life, returns to the Blue Ridge Mountains this week and you won't want to miss it.

Open December 17-21 from 6-9 pm, visiting Bethlehem is a moving family experience that will bring home the reason for the season. On Sunday, December 20, the village will be open from 4-9 pm.

Here is what to expect when you visit....

Imagine a little village that existed long before colored lights, reindeer, or Santa Claus. Roman Soldiers walk the streets, Wise Men appear with their camels, shop keepers are going about their everyday lives yet this village is on the brink of something immense, the birth of one who would forever change the course of human history. Experience this village as it really was. Come to Bethlehem and see for yourself the magic and wonder of the first Christmas.

Step back in time as you enter the gates of Bethlehem of Judea. The Roman emperor has issued an order that a census be taken throughout the Empire and every citizen must register. On a cold winter’s night you are traveling streets illuminated by torchlight, wandering deeper into the heart of a village where cautious Roman soldiers patrol the crowd, Wise men, shepherds, livestock are among the many passersby, shops and shopkeepers inhabit a bustling marketplace, and welcoming cheer abounds. Now, far away from the tinseled trees and crowded malls that most commonly usher in the Christmas holiday season, this is an event no one should miss.

Located at Hebron Baptist Church, Bethlehem Village is a project of love put on annually by the church with help from the community. Click here for directions and location information.

What is the history of the Bethlehem Project?

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains a highly dedicated group of volunteers is transporting delighted spectators back to the 1st century with one of the longest continuous running "Village of Bethlehem" productions in the country. The Bethlehem Project was conceived in 1999 by Rev. Jim Ailor (Hebron Baptist Church pastor at the time), who, having studied a miniature model of Bethlehem and the nativity, decided to recreate historic Bethlehem for people to experience firsthand. He rallied members of Hebron and surrounding churches together to create a temporary village during those first few years. It began with just a few shops and characters in the parking lot of the church. Each year the village was erected and dismantled for the event.

In 2004 Hebron Baptist donated land to allow the village to be constructed as a permanent collection of buildings and stables. It continues to grow each year in its scope and dramatic portrayals while still maintaining the authentic feel of a small village around the 1st century.

Our family has enjoyed this historic experience over the years ... others have, too. There is no cost but a small donation helps to continue bringing this living history to the people of Virginia and beyond.

Follow the star. See you on the road to Bethlehem....

Snow closed Afton's Bethlehem this year ... the rest of the story

In December, did you click on the Village of Bethlehem website and see this?

Bethlehem Alive 2009 ... Due to Extraordinary Snow, Bethlehem Village will not be open for 2009.

For 10 years the village of Bethlehem has come alive in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia as visitors near and far enter the recreated village and step back to the time when Christ was born.

This past December was no different as volunteers worked for weeks preparing the Bethlehem Village located at Hebron Baptist Church in Afton. It was set to open December 18, the day of the big snowstorm that became known as the Blizzard of 2009, when two feet of snow fell over western Virginia. Bethlehem was cancelled and could not open for the 2009 season.

I contacted the good folks at Hebron Church to ask how the snowstorm and the decision not to open had affected them. Mr. Wallace responded and I thought it may be of interest to those who have become regular visitors to this Christmas tradition:

Hello!

I read your note on your blog and thank you for it! I could not have been more shocked at the closing but since I made the decision, it was done. The snow was piled high and tight.

A faithful member took his tractor down and then had to drag square bales of hay all over the village to feed the animals by foot. We rent them from the zoo at around $3,000 each year. They do not come with a keeper, so someone in our church takes that on. This was the first year for Billy and he did a great job with the feed and watering.

Two of the tents we rent came down due to overload of snow.

There was no way we could have opened the village. The streets were full of snow, doorways had 4-foot drifts in them, and the parking lot was not passable.

Our biggest concern was if we opened, and someone was hurt in an accident trying to get to our village, how would we feel. We spent hours getting everything ready, but it was more important to us to have everyone safe, most of all, our visitors.

Perhaps we can open next year, perhaps not. All the money we collect as donations goes back into the village for repairs, update, and, of course, renting animals and tents. So we will leave it in the Lord's hands ... only He knows what this next year will bring.

Blessings to you and all your web friends!

If your family has been blessed by Bethlehem over the years and would consider a donation to help pay off this year's event so that next year may be possible, checks may be sent to the church. Be sure to note that the donation is for "Bethlehem Alive":

Hebron Baptist Church
66 Tanbark Drive
Afton, Va. 22920
(540) 456-6863

And, by the way, the church does not know I am posting this information for donations. Bethlehem has been a blessing to my family and we have donated in the hope Hebron will be able to continue a tradition that has touched thousands over the years. Perhaps others will donate, too.

Snow canceled Bethlehem Village at Afton

An annual event for years, the 2009 Bethlehem Village had to be canceled due to the extraordinary amount of snow received in the Blue Ridge Mountains last weekend.

Buried under two feet of the white stuff, organizers decided it was best to call it off for this year. The Bethlehem Village had been scheduled to run Dec. 18-22. Look for it to return in 2010.

An Augusta County family's journey to Afton's "Bethlehem"

[On Christmas Eve, I received the following email from Augusta County businessman Tom Sheets. I had written about the Bethlehem Village at Afton in the SWAC-GOP News and on this blog, and he wrote to tell me of his experience. With permission, I share his heart-warming message.]

Last Friday night, three not-so-wise people set out on a journey to find Bethlehem. The night seemed to be darker than normal, particularly when they could not locate what they came for. While traveling further down the mountain and questioning the driver’s lack of direction, there suddenly appeared in the East a beam of light which led us not only to Bethlehem but right to the manger!

In today’s world with shrinking economies and increasing trials and turmoil, the story of the birth of Jesus is as meaningful as ever. The light never left this world –- some people are now more receptive.

I “gave up” my Friday night with my usual cast of characters and asked my mother-in-law and [wife] Peggy to come with me. We all were moved by the light symbolism and the atmosphere of Bethlehem -– of course we know the story -– but this year it was good to refresh our faith.

I was not aware of this display until your email -– thank you!

We have shared this story with our church and several have taken their own “personal” journey.

Thank you again and God Bless you and your family.

Merry Christmas!

Tom

My thanks for allowing the story to be shared.

Bethlehem Village at Afton ... open now through Tuesday

A tradition and an experience that takes us back in time 2,000 years to the birth of Christ ... from The Bethlehem Project website:

Imagine a little village that existed long before colored lights, reindeer, or Santa Claus. Roman Soldiers walk the streets, Wise Men appear with their camels, shop keepers are going about their everyday lives yet this village is on the brink of something immense, the birth of one who would forever change the course of human history. Experience this village as it really was. Come to Bethlehem and see for yourself the magic and wonder of the first Christmas.

Step back in time as you enter the gates of Bethlehem of Judea. The Roman emperor has issued an order that a census be taken throughout the Empire and every citizen must register. On a cold winter’s night you are traveling streets illuminated by torchlight, wandering deeper into the heart of a village where cautious Roman soldiers patrol the crowd, Wise men, shepherds, livestock are among the many passersby, shops and shopkeepers inhabit a bustling marketplace, and welcoming cheer abounds. Now, far away from the tinseled trees and crowded malls that most commonly usher in the Christmas holiday season, this is an event no one should miss.

Open daily Friday, December 19 thru Tuesday, December 23, from 6-9 pm. Admission is free to the public. Donations are accepted for the Village and Restaurant to help with costs. Gift shop available.

Hispanic Tour: This year we will have a guided tour in Spanish starting at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, December 23.

Communion Service: Join us for Communion in the Village on Tuesday, December 23, at 8:30 pm.

Special Afternoon Hours: This year we will open at 4:00 pm on Sunday, December 21 (one day only), to allow visitors to enjoy the Village during day light hours.

Location: We are located near the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in central Virginia just minutes from Interstates 64 and 81. Our street address is:

Hebron Baptist Church
66 Tanbark DriveAfton, Va. 22920
Click here for a map to Hebron Baptist Church.
For more information call (540)456-6863.

Background: The Bethlehem Village Project is a community effort of local churches and friends from the Afton, Waynesboro and Charlottesville, Virginia, area. The village is located on the grounds of Hebron Baptist Church in Afton, Virginia, and is maintained by the generous efforts of this fellowship.

History: Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains a highly dedicated group of volunteers is transporting delighted spectators back to the 1st century with one of the longest continuous running "Village of Bethlehem" productions in the country. The Bethlehem Project was conceived in 1999 by Rev. Jim Ailor (Hebron Baptist Church pastor at the time), who, having studied a miniature model of Bethlehem and the nativity, decided to recreate historic Bethlehem for people to experience firsthand. He rallied members of Hebron and surrounding churches together to create a temporary village during those first few years. It began with just a few shops and characters in the parking lot of the church. Each year the village was erected and dismantled for the event.

In 2004 Hebron Baptist donated land to allow the village to be constructed as a permanent collection of buildings and stables. It continues to grow each year in its scope and dramatic portrayals while still maintaining the authentic feel of a small village around the 1st century.

It is well worth following the star to the Bethleham Village at Hebron Baptist Church at Afton.

Visit Bethlehem village at Afton ... the Bethlehem Project

A tradition and an experience that takes us back in time 2,000 years to the birth of Christ ... from The Bethlehem Project website:

Imagine a little village that existed long before colored lights, reindeer, or Santa Claus. Roman Soldiers walk the streets, Wise Men appear with their camels, shop keepers are going about their everyday lives yet this village is on the brink of something immense, the birth of one who would forever change the course of human history. Experience this village as it really was. Come to Bethlehem and see for yourself the magic and wonder of the first Christmas.

Step back in time as you enter the gates of Bethlehem of Judea. The Roman emperor has issued an order that a census be taken throughout the Empire and every citizen must register. On a cold winter’s night you are traveling streets illuminated by torchlight, wandering deeper into the heart of a village where cautious Roman soldiers patrol the crowd, Wise men, shepherds, livestock are among the many passersby, shops and shopkeepers inhabit a bustling marketplace, and welcoming cheer abounds. Now, far away from the tinseled trees and crowded malls that most commonly usher in the Christmas holiday season, this is an event no one should miss.

Open daily Friday, December 19 thru Tuesday, December 23, from 6-9 pm. Admission is free to the public. Donations are accepted for the Village and Restaurant to help with costs. Gift shop.

Hispanic Tour: This year we will have a guided tour in Spanish starting at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, December 23.

Communion Service: Join us for Communion in the Village on Tuesday, December 23, at 8:30 pm.

Special Afternoon Hours: This year we will open at 4:00 pm on Sunday, December 21 (one day only) to allow visitors to enjoy the Village during day light hours.

Location: We are located near the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in central Virginia just minutes from Interstates 64 and 81. Our street address is:

Hebron Baptist Church
66 Tanbark Drive
Afton, Va. 22920

Click here for a map to Hebron Baptist Church. For more information call (540)456-6863.

Background: The Bethlehem Village Project is a community effort of local churches and friends from the Afton, Waynesboro and Charlottesville, Virginia, area. The village is located on the grounds of Hebron Baptist Church in Afton, Virginia, and is maintained by the generous efforts of this fellowship.

History: Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains a highly dedicated group of volunteers is transporting delighted spectators back to the 1st century with one of the longest continuous running "Village of Bethlehem" productions in the country. The Bethlehem Project was conceived in 1999 by Rev. Jim Ailor (Hebron Baptist Church pastor at the time), who, having studied a miniature model of Bethlehem and the nativity, decided to recreate historic Bethlehem for people to experience firsthand. He rallied members of Hebron and surrounding churches together to create a temporary village during those first few years. It began with just a few shops and characters in the parking lot of the church. Each year the village was erected and dismantled for the event.

In 2004 Hebron Baptist donated land to allow the village to be constructed as a permanent collection of buildings and stables. It continues to grow each year in its scope and dramatic portrayals while still maintaining the authentic feel of a small village around the 1st century.

President Bush visits Bethlehem

President George W. Bush visited Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity yesterday during his trip to the Middle East. While there, the made remarks to those in attendance:

THE PRESIDENT: Madam Minister, thank you very much for your hospitality. It's been a -- it's been a moving moment for me and the delegation to be here at the Church of the Nativity. For those of us who practice the Christian faith, there's really no more holy site than the place where our Savior was born.

And I want to thank the government for arranging this trip. I also thank very much the three different churches for welcoming me here. It's a fascinating history in this church, so not only was my soul uplifted, my knowledge of history was enriched.

I want to thank the people of Bethlehem for enduring a presidential trip -- I know it's been inconvenient for you. I very much appreciate your tolerating my entourage. Some day I hope that as a result of a formation of a Palestinian state there won't be walls and checkpoints, that people will be able to move freely in a democratic state. That's the vision, greatly inspired by my belief that there is an Almighty, and a gift of that Almighty to each man, woman and child on the face of the Earth is freedom. And I felt it strongly here today.

Anyway, thank you very much.

Our prayers are with our President as he travels the Middle East.

Christmas in the Shenandoah Valley ... the Bethlehem Village at Afton

Discover the true meaning of Christmas ... the birth of Christ ... when you enter the Bethlehem Project presented by Hebron Baptist Church in the Blue Ridge foothills of Nelson County.

A recreated village of Bethlehem, you are absorbed into the time and place in a way that is unique and presents a moving experience for young and old alike. Watch out for the Roman soldiers! They may stop you to inquire as to why you are there ... they are suspicious of strangers. Check out the animals and the houses ... talk with the shop keepers and village dwellers ... sit by the fire and warm up.

This is the last weekend ... tonight, Saturday, and Sunday (Dec. 21-23) from 6-9:00 p.m. It is cold ... wear appropriate clothing. It is dark ... follow the torches and bonfires. It is reverent ... appropriate behavior should be observed.

It is well worth the trip which is about 30 minutes east of the SWAC area. There is no cost but they take donations. The members of the church have done this for a number of years.

From the Bethlehem Project webside:

There are just three nights left to experience Bethlehem for 2007. We will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights thru December 23rd from 6 to 9 PM. Be aware that there is the possibility of rain on Sunday in our area.

What to expect when you visit....

Imagine a little village that existed long before colored lights, reindeer, or Santa Claus. Roman Soldiers walk the streets, Wise Men appear with their camels, shop keepers are going about their everyday lives yet this village is on the brink of something immense, the birth of one who would forever change the course of human history. Experience this village as it really was. Come to Bethlehem and see for yourself the magic and wonder of the first Christmas.

Step back in time as you enter the gates of Bethlehem of Judea. The Roman emperor has issued an order that a census be taken throughout the Empire and every citizen must register. On a cold winter’s night you are traveling streets illuminated by torchlight, wandering deeper into the heart of a village where cautious Roman soldiers patrol the crowd, Wise men, shepherds, livestock are among the many passersby, shops and shopkeepers inhabit a bustling marketplace, and welcoming cheer abounds. Now, far away from the tinseled trees and crowded malls that most commonly usher in the Christmas holiday season, this is an event no one should miss.

Directions: Hebron Baptist Church is located minutes from I-64 and I-81. Click here for a map.

Hebron Baptist Church
66 Tanbark Drive
Afton, Va. 22920
(540) 456-6868

Merry Christmas!