St. Matthew Plans for 'Journey'

The members of St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 115 E. Penn St., Martinsburg, are pleased once again to present a walk through the Christmas story.

The much beloved "Journey to Bethlehem" will be open to the public from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, and from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10.

This is the 14th time the St. Matthew congregation will present this unique journey since its first presentation in 1995. Approximately 55 members of the congregation take part either as characters in the "Christmas story" or as behind-the-scenes support. The church and Sunday School annex are transformed into 11 different scenes including the home of Mary, Joseph's carpenter shop, the inn at Bethlehem, Herod's throne room, the shepherds with their sheep in the fields and the scene at the manger.

At the beginning of the journey sojourners also hear a story from St. Lucia and St. Nicholas.

As shepherds guide visitors along the Journey to Bethlehem, the angel Gabriel tells about the message he delivers to Mary and Elizabeth; Joseph and Mary will share their fears and joys along their journey; the busy innkeeper tells of his conversation with Joseph; the wisemen describe what it was like to follow the star, and finally hear God's message of peace.

Refreshments will be served following the "journey."

There will be no charge for the "journey." In support of the Martinsburg Food Pantry, St. Matthew will accept donations of non-perishable food items at both presentations. A free-will offering will also be accepted for those wishing to make a monetary donation.

For more information contact the office weekdays between 9 a.m. and noon by calling 793-2413.

New for 2019, St. Matthew Lutheran Church will present "Journey to Bethlehem" as a stage play at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Bice Memorial Chapel at Homewood at Martinsburg,