Everyone is familiar with the star that appeared over Bethlehem in the Christmas story, which was said to have led the wise men to the Baby Jesus. But many questions remain about the celestial event.

A discussion about the topic, titled "Star of Bethlehem," will be presented by astronomer and pastor Peter Detterline on Sunday, Dec. 14, at noon in Detterline Hall at St. Peter United Church of Christ (UCC).

Detterline served as director of the Boyertown Planetarium for 35 years, where he presented astronomy programs to people of all ages. "We used to have a 'Star of Bethlehem' program at the planetarium, and we would talk about some possibilities," he noted. "(This program) is a little different. It's more on the religious end along with the scientific end."

The Star of Bethlehem has been discussed through the years, with some believing it to be a sign from God, while others have suggested that it was a comet or a grouping of planets, called a conjunction, which occurred during the time of the wise men's journey.

One biblical reference to the star comes from Matthew 2:1-2, which states, "Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, 'Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.'"

Using his expertise and knowledge of modern astronomy, Detterline plans to discuss the events that may have inspired what happened in the sky long ago.

"We will talk about (both possibilities)," said Detterline. "Is it something that is real? If it is real, we should be able to tell the date of the actual birth of Jesus because certain astronomical events have a specific time period. If it's not real, what is the story behind it and why did they put it in (the Bible)?"

The program, designed to blend science, history and faith, will also highlight the spiritual significance of the Star of Bethlehem and its place in the Christmas story, which is especially appropriate during this Advent season.

Detterline, who has built his own backyard observatory at his home in Douglassville, has an enthusiasm for astronomy and for teaching. He has previously presented astronomical programs at the church, including one titled "Chasing Shadows," which detailed the total solar eclipse in March of 2024.

Detterline also occasionally brings several of his telescopes to the church's community dinners, which are held on the final Friday of the month at 5:30 p.m. He invites diners to view the night sky after their meals.

The "Star of Bethlehem" program is free and family-friendly. Attendees are also invited to attend the Sunday service at St. Peter at 10:30 a.m. prior to the presentation.

St. Peter UCC is located at 1920 Ridge Road (Route 23), Knauertown. GPS users should use Pottstown. For more information about church activities, visit http://www.stpeterucc.org or http://www.facebook.com/stpeterunitedchurch. Those with questions may call 610-469-9690.