When Chestnut Level Presbyterian Church (CLPC) was unable to host its annual Trunk or Treat event last year, the congregation's fellowship committee, which includes Amy Rineer, Barbara Josephian, and Heather Musser, organized a Christmas event for the public. Journey to Bethlehem is a walk-through live Nativity experience that features six scenes: a visit with the prophet Isaiah, a Jewish marketplace, King Herod's palace, angels and shepherds, an innkeeper's house in Bethlehem, and the manger.

The second annual Journey to Bethlehem will take place on Sunday, Dec. 12, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at CLPC, 1068 Chestnut Level Road, Quarryville. While waiting for a shepherd guide, attendees will sit in the church sanctuary, where there will be live Christmas music provided by the Lampeter-Strasburg High School marching band, the Chestnut Level instrumentalists, and the Lampeter-Strasburg High School Madrigal Singers. The outdoor live Nativity will consist of about 50 characters and a variety of animals, such as sheep, lambs, and miniature horses. After walking through the live Nativity, people can go inside the Family Life Center for cookies. A craft will also be provided to children.

According to pastor John Hartman, Journey to Bethlehem attracted over 300 visitors last year. "It's a nice launch into the holiday season for folks," he said. "People should come to experience the Christmas story as it's shared in the Bible."

Like last year, Boy Scout Troop 91 will assist with hanging lights, Robert Fulton Fire Company will direct parking and maintain traffic control, and Wakefield EMS will provide wheelchairs for those requiring assistance. Golf carts will also be available.

There is no cost to attend Journey to Bethlehem, but attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items that will be donated to the Solanco Neighborhood Ministries food bank. Requested items include french-fried onions, canned corn, crisped rice cereal, snack cracker packs, miniature marshmallows, tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, cream of mushroom soup, canned tuna, canned mixed vegetables, and canned yams or sweet potatoes. Monetary contributions and Giant gift cards will also be accepted.

"We're hoping this becomes a tradition for families that they can do every year," stated Musser. "It brings the Bible to life. People can see it, hear it, feel it, and experience it."

In the case of inclement weather, the event will be postponed to Sunday, Dec. 19, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.chestnutlevel.org or search for "Chestnut Level Presbyterian Church" on Facebook.